A private well demands proper maintenance to provide water to you and your property. That is why periodic well inspections are important to verify its proper functioning. But what exactly does a well inspection entail, and why can’t you ignore it?
In this blog, we’ll break down how well inspections work, why they matter, and what you need to know about getting one. So, let’s start.
What Is A Well Inspection?
A well inspection is a thorough evaluation of your property’s well system that goes beyond measuring water quality. During inspections, a licensed professional examines the well structure, water quality, pump system, and pressure container.
The goal of a well inspection is to ensure that everything is functioning properly and that the water you drink is safe. Home well systems remain neglected until there’s a problem; timely well inspection helps identify potential issues before they turn into major, often expensive, repairs.
Key Components Of A Well Inspection
A complete well inspection covers several important areas:
Structure & Components
The inspector examines the walls of the well, the protective cap, and the well depth. A proper well seal prevents contamination by external substances.
Pump & Pressure Tank
The well pump operates as the water extractor, whereas the pressure tank regulates water flow through your plumbing system. During an inspection, the inspector verifies that the well equipment functions properly.
Water Quality Testing
Perhaps the most critical part of a well inspection is testing the water for contaminants. A professional examination includes laboratory testing that detects bacteria (including E. coli), nitrates, lead, and other dangerous agents. Obtaining early warning about water contamination is vital because it protects our health against hazardous effects.
Flow Rate
During a professional check, the rate at which water enters the well is measured per minute. Inadequate water yield from a well can point to two causes: faulty equipment or a requirement for maintenance work.
Well’s Location
The inspection analyzes the well’s location to ensure it is away from all potential contamination zones, including septic tanks and agricultural runoff areas.
Filtration & Treatment Systems
The inspector checks the systems to verify proper functioning and that they deliver pure water.
Why Well Inspections Matter
Now that you know what goes into a well inspection, let’s talk about why it’s so important. Here are the top reasons you should get a well inspection for your property.
Ensuring Safe Water Quality
The most important reason to have a well inspection is to make sure that the water you’re drinking is safe. The older systems show higher tendencies to develop bacterial, metabolic, or compound contaminations, causing waterborne diseases that affect over 7 million people in the US.
A well inspection tests for dangerous contaminants like bacteria, lead, and nitrates, helping you avoid serious health issues like gastrointestinal illnesses, nervous system damage, or even cancer.
Preventing Costly Repairs
All home systems, including wells, eventually require maintenance because of normal wear. A well inspection can catch issues before they escalate. Detecting wear on your pump and cracking in your well casing will protect you from future maintenance expenses.
Well pump replacement can cost between $950 and $2,630 on average. Periodic well inspections enable you to detect minor problems before they develop into extensive and expensive issues.
Helping With Real Estate Transactions
If you’re buying a house, a well inspection can provide valuable information on its safety and functionality. In fact, many lenders and insurance companies require a well inspection when buying a house, especially if the home relies on a private well for water.
For sellers, a recent well inspection can be a positive selling point. The inspection lets other buyers verify that the well receives proper maintenance and gives them coverage against unexpected future repair expenses. It also helps accelerate the home selling process.
Maintaining Long-Term Water Supply
A well inspection isn’t just about identifying immediate issues; it’s also about ensuring the long-term sustainability of your water supply. Effective maintenance of a well system promotes extended operational duration and provides a dependable water supply for multiple years.
Common Issues Found During Well Inspections
A number of common issues surface during well inspections, among which the following ones stand out:
Bacteria & Germs
Private wells often have E. coli and coliform bacteria. A well inspection can identify these harmful bacteria, which are usually caused by nearby septic systems or animal waste.
Defective Pump
A faulty pump either disrupts the water pressure supply or produces insufficient water output from the system. Repairs or replacement of the working pump may solve the problem.
Low Water Level
A limited water supply may indicate a diminished groundwater level or issues with the equipment components.
Wear & Tear
Corrosion and wear-related damage will affect well casings, pressure tanks, and pump equipment. A well inspection identifies these issues so you can take action before they cause serious problems.
Who Pays For A Well Inspection?
A common question for home buyers and sellers is who pays for the well inspection. Typically, the buyer covers the cost of the well inspection when buying a house. The inspection cost can be negotiated through an agreement. The seller may choose to pay for the inspection to demonstrate the proper functionality of the well before listing the property.
How Often Should You Get A Well-Inspection?
It’s recommended to have a well inspection every 1 to 3 years to ensure everything is functioning correctly. A well inspection should be planned after events like heavy storms, floods or significant water quality alterations. Your well requires an inspection when you detect any problems with decreased water pressure or when the water taste or smell becomes abnormal.
Conclusion
A well inspection is a vital part of maintaining a safe and reliable water supply. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply maintaining your home, regular well inspections help identify potential problems before they become major headaches. The examination of your well provides both safety and cleaning assurance for your drinking water and support for real estate deals.
The ideal time to arrange a well inspection is before you encounter any problems. Schedule a well inspection today with Clatterbuck Home Inspections to ensure your water is clean, your system is functioning properly, and your investment is protected. Contact us now to schedule your well inspection for peace of mind.