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Testing Domestic Water Wells: A Buyers Guide

When purchasing a property with its own water source, it is crucial to conduct thorough testing on the domestic water well to ensure its functionality, safety, and efficiency. This guide covers the essential aspects of testing your new well, including flow rate, construction, pumping equipment, water quality, and the effectiveness of treatment equipment.

Flow Testing

Flow testing is one of the most important steps in evaluating a water well. It involves measuring the rate at which water refreshes or can be supplied by the well. This test helps determine the well's storage, capacity and whether it can meet the family and property's water demands. Testing typically includes:

Static Water Level Measurement: The initial water level in the well before pumping begins or when the well is at rest.
Pumping Test: Water is pumped from the well at a constant rate, and the drawdown (drop in water level) is measured over time.
Recovery Test: After pumping stops, the water level is monitored to see how quickly it returns to the static level, sometimes referred to as the refresh rate or flow rate

Well Construction and Pumping Equipment

The construction of the well and the condition of the pumping equipment are critical for ensuring reliable water supply. Key aspects to evaluate include:

Well Casing, Liners and Screen: Inspect the casing, and liner for any signs of damage or corrosion. Well height and seal inspection. The screen should be free of debris and sediment.
Pump Condition: Check the pump's operation for wear and tear, and ensure it operates efficiently. Check amperage draw and output performance. Look for any signs of leaks, failures or unusual noises.
Pressure Tank: Verify the condition of the pressure tank and its ability to maintain constant water pressure or provide a suitable drawdown on conventional systems. Check for potable fittings and safety devices.

Water Quality Testing

Testing the water quality is essential to ensure it is safe for consumption and use. We understand that potability is more than just one parameter. This involves analyzing both raw water from the well and treated water post any treatment equipment. Common tests include:

Microbial Testing: Check for Total Coliform and eColi Bacteria, Iron Reducing Bacteria, SRB, and Slyme bacteria.
Chemical Testing: Analyze for contaminants such as Hardness, Total Dissolved Solids, Alkalinity, Nitrates, Nitrites, Sodium, Heavy Metals, and more
Custom Parameters: Such as Pesticides, Herbicides, Methane, Radon, Hydrocarbons and more
Physical Testing: Assess the water for sediment, turbidity, color, and odors.

Effectiveness of Treatment Equipment

If the property has water treatment equipment, it is important to verify its effectiveness and condition. This includes:

Filtration Systems: Ensure filters are the correct type and size, clean and functioning properly.
Softening, Iron and Backwashing Systems: Check the condition of the equipment, age and effectiveness to remove their intended parameters from the water.
Disinfection Systems: Verify the effectiveness of UV or chemical disinfection systems in eliminating pathogens.

Repairs, Upgrades and Future Maintenance

Understanding the current condition of the well and its components helps in planning for future maintenance, replacements and repairs. This inspection can prevent major issues from arising unexpectedly, well systems are not inexpensive items on a property or acreage. Key considerations include:

Routine Maintenance: Know and understand what is required level of servicing for the well and equipment.
Repair and Replacement: Identify parts of the system that need immediate repair or replacement and sort this out before your subject removal date.
Future Upgrades: While a system may work as intended today an older system will eventually need to be replaced. Knowing this and budgeting for the inevitable will give you peace of mind and water security.

In Conclusion

Testing domestic water wells is a vital process when buying a property with its own water source. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the well's condition, water quality, and the effectiveness of treatment equipment. By conducting these tests, buyers can make informed decisions about maintenance, repairs, and upgrades, ensuring a reliable and safe water supply for the future.

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Domestic Water Well Testing What you need to know.

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