SON SON
Having access to a reliable, clean water source is essential for any homeowner—especially those who live in rural parts of America. Without a dependable water supply, completing even the most basic everyday tasks become difficult. For many rural Montanans, having a water well is necessary to stay connected to a reliable water source. If a water well goes out of commission, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible. Here are some basics of water well repair in Montana.
What Is a Water Well?
A water well is a deep hole that’s dug or drilled into the ground to access groundwater or an underground aquifer. The well is usually lined with steel casing, which protects the well walls and keeps contaminants from getting into the water supply. Depending on the location, the average depth of a well can range from 50 to more than 600 feet. The deeper the well, the greater the chance of finding more clean, uncontaminated water.
Signs of Water Well Problems
Many homeowners may not realize when there’s an issue with their water well. Here are some signs that could indicate there’s an issue:
• Low water pressure — If the pressure from your faucets suddenly and inexplicably decreases, it could be due to an issue with your well pump or an obstruction in your pipes.
• Unusual tastes or odors — While some mineral-heavy wells may naturally have an odor or taste, changes in this could signal other underlying problems that need to be addressed.
• Discoloration — While some discoloration in your drinking water may be normal depending on the minerals found in your well, any sudden or dramatic changes should be addressed immediately.
Types of Repairs
Once you’ve identified that there’s an issue with your well, you’ll need to find a professional who can perform repairs and get your water supply up-and-running again as quickly as possible. Here are some common types of repair jobs:
• Replacing/repairing pipes — Corroded pipes are one of the most common causes of decreased pressure or poor quality drinking water. An experienced contractor can replace old piping materials, repair leaking joints, and ensure that all connections are secure and functioning properly.
• Replacing/repairing wiring and electronic components — Electrical issues such as corroded switches and worn wiring can lead to decreased water pressure or even complete power failure. A professional contractor can inspect all wiring and related components and replace any defective parts where needed.
• Installing/repairing pumps — If you’re having problems with your pump system or outflow pressure, it’s important to find a contractor who has experience repairing pumps so your home can regain its access to clean drinking water.
• Resealing wells — If you live in an area where flooding is common, there’s also a chance that too much water accumulated near the well and allowed outside air, contaminants, and debris to enter it. A contractor can reseal the joints in your casing so this doesn’t happen again in the future.
Determining Cost of Repairs
The cost of repairing a water well will depend on the type of issues presented and how extensive they are. Some minor repairs may only cost a few hundred dollars while larger issues may require thousands of dollars’ worth of work to correct them. It’s best to discuss pricing with your contractor before beginning any type of repairs on your well so you know exactly what you’re getting into and how much it will cost before committing yourself financially.
Choosing a Contractor
When selecting a contractor for water well repair in Montana, you want someone who is licensed and insured and has experience working with wells in your area. Make sure you check their references and ask them questions about their experience before hiring them to make sure they’re qualified to work on your specific situation. Ensuring they have proper insurance protects both you and them from any potential liabilities should anything go wrong during repairs or maintenance work on your property’s well system.
Taking care of your well is essential for ensuring that you maintain access to clean drinking water for many years to come. Knowing what signs to look for that could indicate issues with your system and understanding what types of repairs may be needed will help you stay informed about potential problems so you can make any necessary repairs quickly and efficiently.