Private/Non-Community Domestic Well Inspections
Include a Well System Check-up
During Your Inspection
Private domestic wells tapping ground water resources can provide
drinking water of the highest quality. However, unlike city water services, private domestic well systems also come
with the responsibility of keeping the water well in good working order. When buying a home with a private well, your home inspection should include a well system check up to
ensure the well is in good working order and the quality of the water produced meets health standards.
There are two major aspects to a private domestic well which should be taken into consideration:
1) the physical well system and components and 2) water quality aspects. Both of these aspects are discussed below and,
according to the National Ground Water Association, should be included on your yearly checkup and maintenance list.
Physical Well System. The typical
private domestic well system consists of a number of components which require periodic evaluation and maintenance. The
typical well system components include:
- well casing and cap
- pump and motor (usually submersible and not visible)
- water supply lines (including check/backflow valves)
- electrical system include branch wiring and circuit box
- pressure tank, pressure switch and pressure gauge
- water filtration system (optional)
As with any system, each of these components wears over times and requires periodic maintenance
and replacement. Routine annual checkups help to ensure proper operation of the well system and prolong its years of
service.
Water Quality. Well water has the
potential to be contaminanted by any number of influences, including:
- Microbiological - coliform and other bacteria
- Organics - solvents, pesticides, etc.
- Inorganics - minerals
- Radiological - radon, uranium, etc.
Water quality has a direct impact on the health of household occupants with poor water quality
having the potential to create various health issues. It is recommended by many of the water control boards and the
EPA to perform routine water quality testing where a private domestic well is in use.
My well inspections include a visual inspection of all the accessible
components of the well system, and upon request, water quality sampling/testing by a certified laboratory for Coliform
and Nitrates (standard test recommended by the EPA). Other water quality tests are also available in the event you are
interested, or have concerns.
