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Ever wish your home had come with an operation manual? Or at least a list of care guidelines?
Our plumbers would agree! Daily, we meet homeowners who have purchased a home and done their best to maintain it, but sometimes you just don't know what you don't know.
Individuals who have never owned a house with a well before tend to have more questions than answers regarding caring for it and how it works.
We know that can be frustrating, so we've provided some resources for general maintenance and a list of potential concerns and what to do about them.
1. General Well System Maintenance
Wells should be treated, or "shocked" annually to clear the system of any build-up. Your well pump and pressure tank will run efficiently and last much longer with regular maintenance. This is something you can have done by calling a professional plumber, but it's also pretty easy to do yourself.
The state of Ohio has a step-by-step walk-through that they recommend and our process looks very similar. This resource is updated according to the state guidelines and recommendations:
When doing this, it is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT that you remember to BYPASS THE SOFTENER. Any chemical used to disinfect the well will damage your softener!! If you are unsure how to do this, it's worth calling a professional plumber for the first time so they can show you how to bypass the softener.
2. Low Water Pressure or Reduced Flow
Possible Causes: Clogged well screen, pressure tank issues, or pump failure.
Suggested Actions:
Check the pressure gauge on the pressure tank.
Inspect faucets for debris buildup that could restrict flow.
If the pressure is consistently low, it’s time to call a plumber to inspect the pump or well system.
3. Cloudy or Discolored Water
Possible Causes: Sediment buildup, contamination, or a drop in the water table.
Suggested Actions:
Run the water for several minutes to see if it clears.
Use a filtration system if the cloudiness persists.
If the water remains cloudy, especially after rain, get the water tested for contamination and have a plumber check the well for any mechanical issues.
4. Sand or Silt in the Water (Dry Well Symptom)
Possible Causes: Low water levels, well running dry, or worn pump.
Suggested Actions:
Reduce water usage to avoid completely draining the well.
Install a sand separator if the problem is minor.
If you notice sand or silt regularly, call a plumber to assess the water level and inspect the pump.
5. Well Pump Cycling On and Off Frequently (Short Cycling)
Possible Causes: Pressure tank issues, leaks in the system, or a failing pump.
Suggested Actions:
Check the pressure switch for any obvious signs of malfunction.
Look for leaks around the well or plumbing system.
If short cycling continues, call a plumber to avoid pump damage.
6. Air Spitting From Faucets (Dry Well Symptom)
Possible Causes: Low water level causing air to enter the system.
Suggested Actions:
Shut off the pump immediately to prevent damage.
Check the well cap and seals to ensure they’re intact and not letting in air.
Call a plumber to evaluate whether the well has sufficient water or if the pump intake needs adjustment.
7. No Water From Well System
Possible Causes: Dry well, pump failure, or electrical issues.
Suggested Actions:
Check the breaker and reset if needed.
Inspect the pressure switch and tank for signs of failure.
If the issue persists, contact a plumber to inspect for well depletion or pump failure.
8. Strange Tasting or Smelly Water
Possible Causes: Contamination, bacterial growth, or mineral changes. (Can also be caused by the anode rod in your water heater. Solution: Replace the anode rod.)
Suggested Actions:
Flush the system to see if the smell or taste dissipates.
Test the water for contaminants, particularly if there’s a sulfur or metallic odor.
If problems persist, consult a plumber to install treatment systems or check for contamination sources.
9. High Electric Bills From Well System (Pump Running Continuously)
Possible Causes: Inefficient pump operation, leaks in the system, or low water table.
Suggested Actions:
Listen for unusual sounds from the pump, which could indicate it’s overworking.
Inspect the plumbing for visible leaks.
If the pump runs continuously without an obvious cause, it’s best to call a plumber to avoid costly damage and repairs.
In addition to these, it's important to pay attention to weather patterns. In a drought, wells may struggle because the water table drops. Well pumps are placed below the water table, so when it drops, the amount of water the pump has access to decreases.
We hope you find this information useful and wish you the best of luck in your homeowning ventures! If you have any questions about your plumbing, give us a call! Our team is happy to help!
Greene's Plumbing, Heating and Electrical
Tiffin, Ohio 44883
Licensed and Insured
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