Well Inspection Houston, TX

Every year, testing the well water for total coliform bacteria, E. coli bacteria, nitrates, radon and arsenic is important. You will need to keep a record of this. Additionally, check the well for signs of damage or contamination.

Make sure that the area around the well is clear of debris, at least 100 feet. Also, checking for negative grading in the yard is a good idea as you don’t want runoff going towards the well.

Hire a professional to testing for the ph. and total dissolved solids.  Also tests on the uses of the land that are nearby as that can affect the water supply. The other areas that will be tested are:

1. Flow test that determines the output
2. Check of the water level
3. Pump motor performance
4. Pressure tank and pressure switch contact
5. Testing of the water quality for bacteria (as mentioned above)
6. Equipment is tested to ensure it is sanitary

The life of a well is about 20 years, however, it can be shorter depending on the soil, climate, and other factors.  Hiring a professional to inspect the well every 10 years is important.

If negative grading is an issue, you can fix this by adding in more soil or looking into a drainage system. Keeping the water away from the well is the idea.

Eaves – can help keep the water away from the home and downspouts will help the water continue to flow out of the yard.

Penn State University recommends the following:

1. Keep a water well completion report or log – this should include information about the water well depth, date drilled, construction (including casing specifications, grouting and screen), and water well yield or flow rate in gallons per minute (gpm)

2. Water quality test reports– when you have the water tested, keep track of the results, along with the past inspection reports.

3.Invoices from work done by water well contractors (including pump replacement and water treatment equipment warranties, invoices, and manuals.

All of this information is important to keep track as you need this in case there are future issues or you tell the home.

1. Keep paints, fertilizers, pesticides and all hazardous materials away from the well in order to avoid contamination with the water supply.
2. Mixing chemicals- if you are mixing chemicals, keep the hose out of the chemicals as it can bring the chemicals into the hose and into the water system.
3. If it is a home that is new to you, consult a professional to make sure that there is adequate space between the waste systems, home, and well.
4. Check the well cap periodically to make sure it is on correctly and not broken.  It should also be 1 foot out of the ground.

1. Corrosion of metal casing– this can lead to sand pumping and deterioration of the well system.  Stainless steel screens are more expensive than carbon screens but last longer.
2. Pump damage– this can be due to extremely high temperatures, corrosion of pump parts, and pumping of sand and sediment that is abrasive.  Have a professional take a look to see if the problems above can be fixed or a new well system is required.