By Barbara Lehrer
Real Talk
Barbara Lehrer
A well is another one of those things in your home that you can take for granted. I have a habit of reminding clients to test the water ever so often, but if you are getting enough pressure that is all most homeowners care about.
There are many parts to the well, and today we are just referring to the cap. Many of the homes in our area were built between 1958 and 1975. During that time, it was appropriate to drill a buried well, as long as the water could be tested, even though the style was not easily accessible for work to be done.
Today, the most appropriate upgrade is a well head above ground. Normally it has a steel casing. That style has now been even further improved as to what is the best protection for its water within. In other words, nowadays you need to check your well cap and make sure this pitless adapter, which is the above ground well casing type, has the proper cap to code.
These caps were started in the 1990s for many reasons. It makes sense that small rodents or snakes can decay in the area. Chemicals from landscaping or clippings themselves can contaminate the well water. The cap is meant to help prevent this. The proper cap is a sealed well cap, a water tight cap.
The average homeowner will not know if they have the proper cap. This is a $300.00 item, and it is important. My advice is to call a certified well specialist who can quickly inspect whether your cap is up to code.
Older homes may have buried wells, even hand dug-wells. But the upgrade to replacing metal pipes with steal pipes is what all inspectors are recommending at home inspections. Wells should all be above ground.
Let’s not wait to find out there are possible contaminants happening when you decide to sell. Be proactive and have the cap checked now.
Knowledge is power, and in this case, it is also a health concern. Testing the water for potability is important. If you have been away for any length of time, the water could need a chlorination and you just do not know. A specialist for all your mechanics is the best attitude of a conscientious homeowner.
The well is just another one of those things. It is okay to have well water instead of city water; just take care of it.
If you need more information on these issues, email Barbara.Lehrer@cbmoves.com.