Old Man Winter is just around the corner, and the weather is already cold. Your water well should be inspected now if you haven’t had it inspected all year. In addition to the inspection, there are other ways you can protect the well from cold, icy winter weather. We are going to list our suggestions below to help keep your water well and household plumbing protected and the power up and running.
Check the Well Pump
Check to see if your water well pump is underground or above ground. This can make a huge difference when it comes to cold weather. A water well pump that is underground is protected from the cold weather above ground level. It is also protected from a ground freeze. A well pump that is above ground is not protected from freezing weather. Consequently, the pump can freeze and refuse to operate. You can protect your water well pump if it is above ground by purchasing a well house. This covers the water well pump and insulates it from the outside air. You can also build one if you prefer.
Insulate Your Plumbing
Another winter problem that Old Man Winter ushers in is burst plumbing pipes. You need to protect your plumbing this winter as much as you need to protect your water well. When the weather dips below freezing, the water in the pipes expands. Unfortunately, if the expansion is too much for the pipe to accommodate, it will burst. You can prevent burst pipes by insulating any plumbing that isn’t warmed by the home’s heat. This includes plumbing in the basement or attic. There is insulation made from fiberglass or rubber for this exact purpose. This insulation keeps the pipes warm.
Hook Up a Generator
Water well pumps are electric, so if there is a power outage, you will lose the water coming into your home. As such, prepare for power outages by purchasing a generator that is big enough to power your home’s electrical system. Generally, these generators run on gas, so make sure you have a supply. There are new solar-powered generators on the market, however. Either way, you need to restore the electricity for running water, so a generator is a worthy investment before winter hits.
Finally, call us to schedule a water well inspection if you are overdue for one. Your water well should be inspected annually. We would be happy to come to your home and maintain your water well system.