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A Lesson In Conservation: How to Prevent Your Well From Running Dry

Around 355 billion gallons of water are used every day by the millions of households in America.

Many of those homes rely on well water.

There are more than 15 million households that depend on water from a private well in the USA.

Well water, after all, is convenient, fresh, and a great resource for those living in more rural areas.

One big issue of having a private well is that if there’s a drought, any other issues with the aquifer, or a problem with the well itself, you lose access to water.

When the well is running dry, there’s no flushing toilets, no showering, no cooking.

Don’t know what to do to prevent your well from running dry?

We’ve got a guide on basic troubleshooting and how to keep the water flowing.

Understand Groundwater Level Cycles

To keep your well from running dry, you should know when water levels rise and fall in your local area.

As a general rule, there’s more water available in later fall.

Water levels can run low again in winter if your area experiences freezing temperatures.

Water levels rise again in later winter as melting snow contributes to the aquifer.

In spring and summer, plants will use up the water as they grow.

Your area might be different.

Check to ensure you’re using water in harmony with the levels near you.

Land Use Affects Water Level

Has your community undergone recent changes?

You might notice your well running dry.

A few buildings here or there might not have a major effect on your well water.

If there’s a huge development project, though, you could see your well run dry.

Get involved in your local community.

Got neighbors that also rely on well water? Get together with them and express any concerns you might have.

Check for Leaks

Drip, drip, drip – that’s the sound of hundreds of gallons going to waste all-around your home.

Little things like a leaky faucet or a pipe that’s not fitted correctly can rob your household of the water it needs.

Keep your well from running dry by doing basic maintenance as needed to make sure not a single drop goes to waste.

Upgrade Your Appliances

Older equipment, like dishwashers, washing machines, and toilets, can be water hogs.

For example, Energy Star HE (high efficiency) washing machines use 33% less water than older models.

Consider upgrading your equipment with water-saving, energy efficient appliances and fixtures.

Youโ€™ll conserve water and save money on energy costs. Itโ€™s a win-win.

Use Water Responsibly

You might think itโ€™s a great idea to do all of your chores on the same day, but it can affect the water available in your well.

Spreading your chores out over the course of the week will help keep your well full.

Also, if you are running the dishwasher or washing machine, make sure you run full loads to minimize water use.

Outdoor Use

Choose drought-tolerant plants, shrubs, and trees for your landscaping to cut down on the need for watering.

Longer grass shades the soil below it, which helps with water retention, so avoid cutting your grass too low. Only water the lawn when necessary.

Tell-Tale Signs That Your Water Well Is Running Dry

We donโ€™t tend to think too much about our water supply until something goes wrong.

Here are some warning signs that your well may be running dry:

  1. Water Tastes or Smells Different: When a well is running dry or the depth has dropped, you may notice a different odor or taste. This can be due to the water coming from the bottom of the well, which contains more sediment and other deposits
  2. Water Doesnโ€™t Run Clear: If your once crystal-clear water is coming out murky or muddy, it could be the result of a well that is drying out.
  3. Faucets Sputter When Running: Are your faucets spitting and sputtering more than they have in the past? This could be due to a well that is drying up, or it could point to a plumbing issue.
  4. Pump Runs for Prolonged Periods: If your pump is running for longer than usual, or if it is switching on and off more frequently, it could be because it is having to work extra hard to pump out water.
  5. Neighbors Are Experiencing Similar Issues: If your well is tapped into the same water source as those of your neighbors, check in with them to see if they are experiencing similar issues. If so, it could be a diminished water source.

If you are experiencing any of the issues above, get in touch with an experienced well water service professional.

Many of the above symptoms can point to a well that is going dry, or they can be the result of a plumbing issue, poor well pump placement, or other much more minor problems.

Conservation Is Key to Keep Your Well from Running Dry

To keep your well from running dry, follow these conservation tips and keep the water flowing to your household.

Donโ€™t forget that it pays to have a backup plan in case of an emergency. A rainwater barrel that collects water from gutters can help you get through a drought.

Thinking about changing the type of well you have? Need service on your pump to ensure youโ€™re not wasting a drop of water? Contact us today!

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Searching for the “best well water service company near me?” Look no further than Empire Pump. We specialize in creating, maintaining, and servicing residential water wells so you can enjoy clean, fresh water without interruption. Call 623-582-5069 now to schedule an appointment or to have your questions answered!

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