FAQ: If My Well Is More Than 10 Years Old, What Do I Need to Do?

If your well is more than 10 years old, you should have it inspected by a qualified well contractor or inspector. This will help to identify any potential problems with your well, such as damage, corrosion, or leaks. The inspector may also recommend any necessary maintenance or repairs.

Here are some specific things you may need to do if your well is more than 10 years old:

Replace the well pump. Well pumps typically have a lifespan of 10-15 years.

If your pump is more than 10 years old, it is a good idea to have it inspected and replaced if necessary. (360) 684-1932

There are a few well pump brands that have a reputation for needing to be replaced sooner than others. These brands include:

  • Liberty Pumps
  • Jennings Pumps
  • Wayne Pumps
  • Little Giant Pumps
  • Pentair Pumps

These brands are not necessarily bad, but they have been known to have more problems than other brands. This could be due to a number of factors, such as the quality of the materials used, the manufacturing process, or the design of the pumps.

It is important to note that not all pumps from these brands will need to be replaced sooner. However, if you have a pump from one of these brands, it is important to monitor it closely for signs of problems and to have it serviced regularly.

The best well pump brands are those that are known for their quality, durability, and reliability. Here are a few of the best well pump brands in Washington state:

  • Grundfos
  • Flojet
  • Red Lion Pumps
  • Hallmark Industries
  • Franklin Electric

These brands offer a wide range of well pumps to choose from, including submersible pumps, jet pumps, and surface pumps. They also offer pumps for a variety of well depths and water needs.

Here are some of the reasons why these brands are considered to be the best:

  • They use high-quality materials and components.
  • They have rigorous manufacturing processes.
  • They offer excellent customer service and support.
  • Their pumps have a reputation for being durable and reliable.

Clean and disinfect the well.

Over time, wells can become contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and other microbes. Having your well cleaned and disinfected can help to protect your water quality. The best time to clean and disinfect your well in Washington State is during the spring. This is because the winter months can be harsh on wells, and there is a greater risk of contamination during this time. Flooding, snowmelt, and thawing can all introduce bacteria and other contaminants into the well.

Here are some specific reasons why spring is a good time to clean and disinfect your well:

  • Reduced risk of contamination: The ground is less saturated with water in the spring, which means there is less runoff and flooding. This reduces the risk of bacteria and other contaminants being washed into the well.
  • Warmer weather: The warmer weather in the spring makes it easier to disinfect the well. The disinfectant will be more effective and will dissipate more quickly.
  • Less demand for water: In the spring, people are less likely to be using their well water for irrigation or other outdoor activities. This gives the well more time to recover from the cleaning and disinfection process.

In addition to cleaning and disinfecting your well in the spring, you should also test your water regularly for bacteria and other contaminants. This will help you to identify any problems early on and take steps to correct them.

Here are some specific steps you can take to clean and disinfect your well:

  1. Pump out the well water. This will remove any contaminated water from the well.
  2. Clean the well casing and pump. This can be done with a mild detergent and water.
  3. Disinfect the well. This can be done with chlorine bleach or another EPA-approved disinfectant. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
  4. Pump the well water again. This will flush out the disinfectant and any remaining contaminants.
  5. Test the well water to make sure it is safe to drink.

If you are not comfortable cleaning and disinfecting your well yourself, you can hire a professional well contractor like us to do it for you. (360) 684-1932

Replace the well casing. The well casing is the pipe that protects the well from contamination.

If the well casing is damaged or corroded, it should be replaced. The lifespan of a well casing can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of casing material, the quality of the installation, and the environmental conditions. In Washington state, well casings typically last for 20-30 years. 

Test the well water quality.

Even if your well is well-maintained, it is a good idea to test the water quality regularly for bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants.

By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that your well continues to provide safe and reliable drinking water for many years to come.

Do you need help with your water system? 

If you need well repairs, a well inspection, a well drilled, or any of the other well and water system related services we provide, you can email us 24 hours a day at service@jkawelldrilling.com, or call us at (360) 684-1932 (office hours are Monday-Friday, 730AM - 300PM).

Why Do Water Wells Run Dry in the Summer?

In many parts of the world, water wells are a vital source of water for drinking, irrigation, and other purposes. However, seasonal changes, often in the summer,  can cause some wells to run dry, leaving people without access to this essential resource. Why do wells...

Old, Unused Wells Can Pose a Physical Danger, Especially to Children and Animals

Old, unused wells can pose significant physical dangers in the Pacific Northwest (PNW), a region characterized by diverse geography and weather conditions. Here are some specific ways these dangers manifest in the PNW: 1. Risk of Falling and Injury: Uncovered or...

Point of Entry System (‘POE’) vs Point of Use Home (Home Water Filtration)

The primary difference between a Point of Entry (POE) system and a Point of Use (POU) water filtration system is their location and scope of water treatment. Point of Entry System (POE) Water Filtration If you want pure water from every faucet in your home, including...

Whole House Water Filtration Systems Can Positively Impact Resale Value

Whole house water filtration systems can positively impact resale value, particularly in areas where water quality is a concern or where buyers are environmentally conscious. Here are some reasons why such systems might be appealing to potential buyers: Health...

Aquifers in Monroe Can Make It Possible to Drill Water Wells for Homes, Businesses, and Agriculture

Aquifers are underground layers of water-bearing rock or sediment that can store and transmit significant amounts of groundwater. When these aquifers are tapped through wells, they can offer a consistent and renewable supply of water. The presence of aquifers in...

Ensure the System You Choose Can Handle Your Household’s Water Needs

To ensure the water well system you choose can handle your household’s water needs, start by assessing your water needs. Calculate your daily water usage, keeping in mind that an average household uses about 80-100 gallons per person per day. Include all uses such as...

Home Water Well Pumps Models That Are Energy-Efficient (Save on Electricity Bills)

Choosing an energy-efficient home water well pump can significantly reduce electricity bills. Here are a few models known for their energy efficiency: Grundfos SQFlex Series: These pumps are known for their energy efficiency and versatility. They can operate on both...

Don’t Get Caught in the Cold: Protecting Your Snohomish County Well System from Winter’s Wrath

Living in Snohomish County, we know winter can pack a punch. While cozy fireplaces and snow angels are delightful, frozen pipes and malfunctioning pumps can quickly turn the dream into a nightmare. Protecting your well system from the icy grip of winter is crucial,...

The Two Types of Iron in Your Water

Living in Snohomish County? Chances are, your well water comes from aquifers nestled in iron-rich soil or rock. This natural mineral, while essential for our health, can pose problems in our water when present in excess. Let's dive into the world of iron in well water...

Low Water Pressure And How To Fix (Water Well Repairs FAQ)

Low water pressure can be a significant inconvenience, especially when it worsens over time. It can be a straightforward issue to resolve in some cases, while in others, it becomes a persistent problem. Therefore, it's valuable for homeowners to be aware of the common...

ASSOCIATIONS & MEMBERSHIPS