Colorado is a beautiful state known for its stunning mountain views, crisp air, and abundance of outdoor activities. But behind the idyllic scenes lies an extensive network of water wells supplying fresh water to homes and businesses across the state. With over 130,000 registered wells in Colorado, water well inspection is a critical practice to ensure access to clean, safe drinking water.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of water well inspection in Colorado and why routine maintenance is essential. We’ll uncover when inspections should occur, what’s examined during the inspection, and how to find qualified professionals to assess your well system. By understanding the value of proactive water well inspection Colorado homeowners can better safeguard their health, their investment, and this precious natural resource.
The Role and Prevalence of Water Wells in Colorado
Water wells allow people to access groundwater reservoirs located under the land’s surface. Drilled wells can extend hundreds or even thousands of feet deep to tap into water-bearing rock formations. Shallow wells may only be 10-50 feet deep in areas with a high water table. Wells often have electric pumps installed to lift the water to the surface.
Over 2.1 million people in Colorado rely on groundwater for their municipal, domestic, and agricultural needs. The majority of households outside of major cities depend on private wells. With rural living attractive for many, well ownership is relatively high compared to other states.
This abundance of wells underscores the importance of inspection and maintenance. Wells deteriorate over time like any infrastructure. But issues may go unnoticed since wells are out-of-sight underground. Professional well inspection provides a closer look at the well system to prevent problems from escalating.
When Should Water Well Inspections Occur?
Water Well Inspection Colorado should take place annually to spot issues before they become costly repairs. Annual inspections allow homeowners to budget and plan for any recommended maintenance. It’s also smart to inspect wells after extreme weather events like heavy rains, flooding, wildfires, droughts, and ground shifting due to soils settling, earthquakes, or frost upheaval. Events like these can negatively impact wells and potentially contaminate groundwater. Consider inspection after:
- Purchasing a new property with an existing well
- Noticing changes in well performance, water quality, or quantity
- Having recent well repairs or pump replacements
- Construction activities like excavations near the well
For real estate transactions, water quality testing is commonly required. Full inspection by a certified professional provides further due diligence on the well’s status. Seek professional well inspection anytime there’s uncertainty about well system safety and function.
How Often Should Pumps and Components Be Serviced?
In addition to annual visual checks, regular maintenance helps maximize water well system longevity:
- Pump servicing every 3-5 years to inspect internal components and lubricate the pump motor. Frequency depends on the pump type and well usage.
- Pressure tank servicing every 5-10 years to drain sediment, check the air charge, and ensure the tank and valves are working properly.
- Well disinfection every 1-3 years to control bacteria buildup and maintain clean drinking water. Shock chlorination or other approved methods may be used.
- Water testing annually for common groundwater contaminants. More frequent testing may be needed if initial results are unsatisfactory.
- Well redevelopment every 10-20 years removes silt and mineral deposits from the screen and gravel pack. This can restore lost well yield and efficiency over time.
Follow your inspector’s suggestions for servicing frequency based on your specific well construction, use patterns, and water quality. Think of it as recommended maintenance for protecting your investment.
How to Find Qualified Water Well Inspection Services
Look for certified professionals who are knowledgeable about local hydrogeology, groundwater quality, and wells specifically. Organizations like the National Ground Water Association (NGWA) offer water well system certifications. In Colorado, inspectors certified by the Department of Water Resources are ideal.
Water system contractors licensed in Colorado that install and service wells are also qualified to inspect. Ask about additional manufacturer training and certifications. Seek a mix of technical expertise and hands-on field experience. Reviews and referrals from past clients offer helpful insight too.
Schedule inspections with a provider that offers:
- Detailed inspection, testing, analysis, and reports
- Clear recommendations for improvements or further evaluation
- Options and cost estimates for any required repairs
- Ongoing maintenance and remediation plans
This comprehensive approach provides the greatest value from your investment in a well inspection.
Well Inspection Costs: Is It Worth the Investment?
Professional well inspections range from $200 for a basic visual check to over $1000 for comprehensive assessment including lab tests. Costs vary based on the components evaluated and water tests performed. Additional repairs or maintenance are billed separately.
At first glance, the cost may seem high for preventative maintenance. Consider this: well repairs often run thousands of dollars for parts and labor. And contaminated well water can cause serious health consequences. In comparison, the cost of inspection is minimal for the value gained:
- Confirming water safety for your household and peace of mind
- Early detection of issues to avoid larger problems
- Preventing contamination by improving well conditions
- Optimizing performance and longevity of your well system
- Identifying improvements that increase convenience and dependability
- Qualifying for insurance discounts offered for proactive well and septic maintenance
- Increasing property value with a report verifying your well’s good condition
Regular investment in inspection and maintenance helps safeguard your family’s health, your precious water resource, and the sizable investment in your well system.