Plenty of homeowners take their wells for granted. After all, a well that taps into a good aquifer can provide clean and cool water for generations. However, drought seasons can cause your water level to decrease. And with regular use and frequent dry spells, your well may dry up at one point. When it happens though, it doesn’t happen overnight. You’ll notice signs that your water source is faltering. If you’re not sure, here’s what to look out for to avoid getting caught without fresh water.
How To Tell If Your Well Is Drying Out?
1. Faucets Begin Sputtering
It’s normal for faucets to sputter when you open them. However, if the sputtering start happening a lot more often, it’s a sign that there’s air in your plumbing system. You can trace this issue to failing valves or a pipe leak. But, it can also mean a drop in your groundwater level. Your well pump may be trying to draw water but is sucking in the air instead.
2. Muddy or Murky Water
Well water should always be crystal clear to be of safe use. But, when it comes out sandy or muddy and has a weird taste or odor, it’s one sign that your well might be going dry. This especially becomes concerning if this kind of water still comes out of your faucet even if you have a sediment filter. Usually, sediments remain undisturbed at the bottom of your well if your pump has a lot of clean water to draw in. But, when that water starts dwindling, the sediments get kicked up and swirls around the pump.
3. Reduced Water Pressure
If the water starts coming out in trickles in faucets all over the house instead of gushing out, your water pressure is in trouble. This can be the result of many factors like a blocked pipe or a problem with the pressure tank. But, it can also be caused by dwindling water supply. It’s best to check for all the signs of consult with a professional though before you declare that your well is running dry.
4. Pump Runs Longer
When your pump starts running longer, it means its struggling to build up pressure and pump the water out. Usually, the pump is placed deep underwater. But, when the water level drops, your pump will always be trying to keep the tank full and maintain water pressure. Another sign that you can get from your pump that your water level is running low is when it starts turning on and off continuously.
5. Water Well Recovery is Slow After Heavy Use
Water wells take time to recover after heavy use like watering your lawn or doing back to back laundry. But, when it’s taking ages longer than it used to, it might mean that your aquifer is going dry.
6. Neighbors are Reporting Similar Problems
Once you notice a handful of these signs happening, ask your neighbors. If they’re well owners and are experiencing the same problems, your water source may be running out. This is a good time to measure your water supply and get a good grip on what you’re facing.
All these signs can point to your water well going dry. But, they can also point to other water well problems like a failing pump, a fluctuation in the groundwater, or a leak in your well casing. That’s why it’s wise to measure your water level first with a water level meter. Or better yet, schedule a consultation with a professional to know for certain.