Millions of households across the country rely on wells to supply them with reliable supplies of fresh, clean water for drinking, bathing, and cleaning. Although water wells come in a variety of types and configurations, they all rely on water well pumps to move water from underground into reservoirs and pressure tanks for regular use. Like any household system, these pumps require regular maintenance to remain in optimal condition for years of use. Here are a few steps to incorporate into your maintenance routine.

How to Maintain Your Water Well Pump

1. Use Anti-Corrosion Additives

Water well pumps consist of numerous metal parts that, despite being protected with water-resistant coatings and treatments, are at risk of corrosion due to constant exposure to water. If rust buildup becomes extensive, it can cause a well to break down completely, requiring extensive repairs or replacement.

A way to avoid this problem is by adding anti-corrosion additives to the well system. There are many such additives that are safe and non-toxic, and most are corrosion inhibitors that slow the development and spread of corrosion rather than preventing it. It’s still important to schedule annual inspections to assess the presence and extent of any rust or other problems.

2. Inspect the Pump

Storms, floods, and everyday wear and tear can cause a variety of problems and damage, ranging from minor to severe. Detecting these issues before they become major problems is the best way to determine whether professional assistance is needed and what, if any, steps you can take on your own.

If you have a jet pump, you can look for signs of damage, such as leaks around the seal. If you have a submersible pump, you may be able to detect problems by looking for leaks, rust, or other forms of damage on the pipes or around the pressure tank.

3. Clean the Cooling Fans

All mechanical systems are subject to heat buildup due to friction created by moving parts. Although the moving elements in a water well pump are coated in water-resistant lubricant to keep operating temperatures within acceptable limits, they also benefit from the presence of cooling fans to further reduce heat. However, these will only function as intended if they’re kept clean and free of debris, such as leaves, twigs, and dirt. While conducting a monthly visual inspection, clean out the cooling fans to ensure they’re in working order.

Supplement your water well maintenance efforts with help from the professionals at Rosenlund Drilling LLC. Located in Elko, NV, and serving homeowners throughout Utah and Nevada, they have more than 45 years of combined industry experience and are qualified to work on water well pumps and related systems. Call (775) 753-7960 to schedule an inspection or repairs, and visit them online to learn more about their services.