As a private well owner, it’s your responsibility to understand how your well works.
That means you have to at least know what the main components of your well are and what they do. Having this basic knowledge will empower you to make smarter decisions regarding testing, filtration, and maintenance. After all, you don’t want to overlook important repairs or get taken advantage of by a snake-oil technician.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the six most important parts of your water well and their basic functions.
1. Well Pump
Without the pump, your well doesn’t work. It’s the engine that drives the whole operation. Your well pump takes water from the ground and pushes it into your property’s pipes, ultimately delivering water to your taps.
2. Well Casing
The well casing is the tube-like enclosure that forms the entire structure of your well. It also keeps dirt, sediment, and other contaminants from entering your well.
3. Well Cap
This piece goes on top of your well casing, forming a watertight seal to keep organic matter, dangerous pathogens, and toxic runoff from getting into your well water supply.
4. Pressure Tank
The pressure tank is responsible for monitoring the water pressure (obviously) inside and switching the pump on or off when the pressure fluctuates. When the pressure drops below a certain psi, it knows to turn the pump on and draw in more water from the well, so your property can continue to have reliable water delivery.
5. Well Screen
Essentially a sieve, your well screen prevents dirt, sediment, and other particles from getting into your well water.
6. Pitless Adapter
One of the hallmarks of modern well design, the pitless adapter connects a drop pipe with the main pipe that delivers water to your property. It enables access to the well head for maintenance while preventing surface runoff contamination and frozen pipes during the winter.
And there you have it!
If you want to find out more about how your particular water well operates, or if you have any questions about your well’s performance, please don’t hesitate to call Goold Wells & Pumps.