6 Essential Facts About Well Water Before You Start Digging

Important Points to Remember

Access to drinking water is so integral to our daily routines that we often overlook its source. However, the quality of water can vary greatly across the U.S. and worldwide, which can significantly impact the overall quality of life.

Almost 300 million Americans depend on public water systems. However, about 13 to 15 million people use private wells, as reported by the Environmental Protection Agency. Many of these households are located in rural areas, where it's often too costly to extend municipal water networks.

Some affluent homeowners may choose to invest in building their own infrastructure to access municipal water. However, the majority prefer using private wells to meet all their water needs. A pump system is then set up to bring the water inside.

Well water is unique in every way, from its source to its taste, and even in the regulations governing its safety and quality. Here are six essential things to know about well water.

1. Well Water Never Runs Out - Well, Almost

Municipal water systems are designed to provide a continuous water supply, as long as there are no major disruptions. Private wells operate similarly, but there are instances where wells may fail.

"Well water may run dry or deplete, but it generally replenishes when more water seeps back into it," says Phil Ash, the founder of Pro Paint Corner, a company that collaborates with numerous home contractors.

This isn't common, but it can occur when large quantities of water are extracted over extended periods. If you push your well to its limits, the water may eventually start to appear murky and discolored.

There are other scenarios where private wells may fail, according to David Shell, founder of the home maintenance publication TradesManCosts in the U.K.:

The good news is that wells that are well-maintained typically function smoothly for decades without significant problems.

2. Digging Deep Might Be Necessary

To access water, you must dig or drill into the earth, reaching aquifers (permeable rock layers that hold water). In some areas, you can dig straight down until you reach a groundwater source.

Well construction typically falls into three main types: bored (or dug), driven, and drilled wells. Each has its own method of casing (enclosure).

Bored or dug wells are the shallowest, usually ranging from 10 to 30 feet (3 to 9 meters) deep. These wells are often cased with simple tile or brick, and the casing is typically not continuous.

Driven wells typically reach depths of 30 to 50 feet (9 to 15 meters) and feature seamless casing. However, because they draw water from relatively shallow sources, they are more susceptible to contamination.

Drilled wells can extend hundreds or even thousands of feet underground, and their casing is continuous. Due to the significant depth, these wells are the least prone to contamination as the water is far removed from surface pollutants.

3. It May Not Always Be Feasible

The depth of the water table varies depending on location. If it's too shallow, contamination may become a concern. If it's too deep, drilling a well might not be worth the cost, or the water yield might be too low to justify the effort. Other challenges could also arise.

"Aquifers located deep underground may contain higher salt levels, which makes the water unsuitable for drinking," says Ash.

That's not the only issue. "In some regions around the world, you may never encounter water, as the area might be too dry," he explains.

Shallow wells are more prone to contamination from chemicals that infiltrate the groundwater. This often happens in areas where industrial activities or agricultural practices using various herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers are prevalent.

The EPA has confirmed that numerous private wells in the U.S. have nitrate concentrations that surpass EPA regulations. (While nitrates naturally occur in water, excessive levels can pose health risks.) This is another reason why monitoring your water quality is crucial year-round.

4. Well Water Has a Pleasant Taste

Municipal water systems often treat their water with chemicals to make it safe for consumption. Common additives include chlorine, chlorine dioxide, and ozone. Yet, at some point, most of us have choked on water that contains too much of these chemicals, making it unpleasant to drink.

"If you've ever experienced unpleasant tap water, switching to well water could offer a welcome change," says John Linden, an interior designer at MirrorCoop, who grew up with well water and has worked on various home projects. "Many people find the taste better, although it might occasionally have a slightly unusual flavor due to the absence of chlorine or organic compounds like fluoride in the system."

The high nutrient content is one reason why well water is often perceived as tastier and more refreshing than municipal water. These nutrients can be beneficial for your health. However, the mineral content varies greatly by location, and lab testing is the only way to determine exactly what’s in your water.

Linden cautions that well water’s high mineral content can leave deposits on glassware. These marks can persist for years if not cleaned. In some regions, the minerals are so strong that it's recommended to use a soft sponge without harsh chemicals to prevent scratching your dishes.

5. Annual Water Testing Is Essential

While you might view your private well as a symbol of pride and self-sufficiency, it's important to remember that EPA regulations only apply to public water sources, which are subject to continuous testing.

In other words, ensuring your water supply is safe to drink is your responsibility. This means you need to conduct tests, typically once a year, or more frequently if you suspect any issues.

"You can buy a basic water test on Amazon for around $25, which checks for lead, bacteria, pesticides, and other contaminants," says Thomas Jepsen, a custom home planner at Passion Plans, who also uses well water at his home. "However, it's best to have a comprehensive test done when you first drill the well, which may cost several hundred dollars. Then, it's important to continue testing yearly."

A comprehensive test should examine these potential contaminants, as outlined by Shell:

If your water is contaminated, do not consume it. In case of chemical contamination, avoid even bathing with it. Reach out to your local health department for advice on how to address the issue.

6. You Might End Up Saving Money

In the U.S., the average cost for public water is $315 annually, and in some areas, it can be two or three times more. Well water, however, comes at no cost, though you'll still need to cover electricity expenses to pump the water into your home.

"While you'll need to invest in maintaining your water system, the savings in the long run are greater," states Shell.

Here's an overview, shared by Insurify blog: The initial cost of installing a well in the U.S. usually ranges around $5,000 ($15 to $30 per foot of depth), and annual maintenance runs between $300 and $500. If there is an existing well on your property, you can skip the installation cost. For city water, assuming a family of four consumes 10,500 gallons (39,747 liters) in 30 days at a rate of $0.005 per gallon, the total cost would be $630 per year. A well-maintained pressure tank may last 25 years or more.

While one major well repair might surpass the cost of two years' worth of city water, if your well remains problem-free, it could save you money in the long term — especially if you're in an area with high city water bills.