If you live in a house that is reliant on well water, you are not alone. About 15 million homes in the United States get their water from a well. Well drilling has been helping people for hundreds of years to find groundwater to bring into their homes. If your family relies on well water, there are some things you should be doing. These tips can help.

Know Where Your Water Comes From

The U.S. Geological Survey said about 25% of freshwater comes from groundwater. If you are on a well, 100% of your water comes from groundwater. Groundwater is water that is found deep in the earth. Well drilling exposes the source.

The well drilling company will have aquifer maps that will show you where water has been located on your property and may even be able to tell you how it is connected to other nearby sources. This important information will help you stay informed about potential contaminants reaching your water.

Managing the Rich Mineral Water

Typically, well water is rich in essential minerals. Those essential minerals are great for your body but not so great to shower in or wash laundry in. A water softener system can help to reduce the “hard water” staining that is common with well water. Many well drilling companies offer water softener systems to help homeowners manage the problem.

Educate Yourself on the Rules and Regulations for Your Area

Many counties and states have specific well water rules and regulations that are put in place to help protect people from contaminated water. Educate yourself on testing requirements and other regulations that may affect your well. Ask either your local well drilling company or local environmental regulatory body about rules you should be following.

Keep the Area Clean Around Your Pump

Make sure the area around your well pump is kept clean and free of debris. Having easy access to your pump is important if it needs to be primed or repaired. Additionally, keeping the area clean of leaf litter and debris will help to avoid the overgrowth of bacteria and fungus that could impact your water quality.

Replace Your Standard Well Cap

If you have a standard well cap consider replacing it with a sanitary cap to help keep insects and rodents out of your well. A sanitary cap can also keep other surface contaminants out of your well. It is worth the investment to keep your water safe.

Your local well drilling company can provide you with other tips for properly managing your well. They are also the experts that can help with repairs, and, of course, drill a new well if necessary. Take care of your well and enjoy fresh safe water.