Periodically inspect exposed parts of the well for problems, such as: cracked, corroded, or damaged well casing; broken or missing well cap; and settling or cracking surface seals.

Keep accurate records of any well maintenance, such as disinfection or sediment removal that may require the use of chemicals in the well.

The wells’ casing should extend a minimum of 20 feet below the ground surface and preferably be driven at least 5 feet into bedrock.

Keep your well records in a safe place.  These include the construction report, as well as the annual water well system maintenance and water testing results.

When landscaping, keep the top of your well at least 18 inches above the ground.

Hire a certified well driller for any new well construction, modification, or abandonment and closure.

Be careful when working or mowing around your well. A damaged casing could jeopardize the sanitary protection of your well.  Don’t pile snow, leaves or other materials around your well.

Avoid mixing or using pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, degreasers, fuels, motor oil, and other pollutants near the well.

Never dispose of hazardous materials in a septic system.

Install a well cap or sanitary seal that prevents animals or other vermin from getting into your well, and that hinders the unauthorized use of, or entry into, the well.

Don’t allow back-siphonage.  When mixing pesticides, fertilizers or other chemicals, don’t put the hose inside the tank or container.

A sanitary seal or concrete platform should be set around the wellhead to keep pollutants from entering the well bore.

Disinfect drinking water wells at least once per year with bleach or hypochlorite granules, according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Always maintain proper separation between your well and buildings, waste systems or chemical storage facilities.  As a rule of thumb, maintain a minimum of 100 feet between the water source and a subsurface sewage absorption area.  Contact a professional well contractor for specific information.

Existing wells in areas with a history of flooding should have the casing elevated at least 2 feet above the highest known flood level and also should have a watertight sanitary seal at the top of the grouted casing.

Do not cut off the well casing below the land surface.

Pump and inspect septic systems as often as recommended by your local health department.

Slope the area around the well to drain surface runoff away from the well.

Do not dispose of wastes in dry wells or in abandoned wells.

Have the well tested once a year for coliform bacteria, nitrates, and other contaminates of concern.  Any source of drinking water should be checked any time there is a change in taste, odor, or appearance, or anytime a water supply system is serviced.

When your well has come to the end of its serviceable life (usually more than 20 years), have a qualified water well contractor properly decommission your well after constructing your new system.