As the 42 million Americans who have wells will attest, there’s nothing like a cold, refreshing glass of water that only a well provides! With a well, you’ll enjoy the independence of managing your water supply and what goes into it. Furthermore, it’s generally less expensive to have your own well than have a house hooked up to city water. Before you install a well, however, there are specific considerations to keep mind. One is that having a well has unique effects on your plumbing.
Codes and Regulations
What many people don’t know is that there are different codes you must follow if you’re connecting your plumbing to a city line versus using your own well. For this reason, it’s a good idea to plan your water supply before building a home. Otherwise, converting from city to well water can be challenging! If you are planning a new home or a renovation, a plumber Henderson NV can help. A professional plumber will know the codes and how to configure the pipes accordingly.
Water Quality
Having your own well means that your water isn’t subject to the same chemicals that go into city water. However, it also means that you are responsible for making sure your water is safe to drink. Since well water is sourced from the ground, it can contain minerals that aren’t found in city water. These minerals, in turn, can affect your pipes. If you are considering getting a well for your home, ask a plumber in Henderson to recommend piping materials based on the mineral content of the well. This will make a tremendous difference in the longevity of your pipes, and even your own health.
Hazardous Weather
People with wells must make special considerations when preparing for severe weather. This is because unlike conventional pipes, which will usually run in a power outage, the water from a well will not continue flowing into your home. If a severe storm is approaching where power outages appear to be likely, you’ll need to take precautions. This includes filling the sinks and tubs with water. At a minimum, you’ll be able to flush the toilets and use water for washing. You’ll also need to protect your home’s sump pump. If you don’t have a power surge protector, be sure to get one before the storm. Surges can be dangerous, and they can occur even if your home does not lose electricity. Finally, the wellhead and pump should be protected from the elements. This can be as simple as covering them or securing them in place.
For many people, having a well is a major asset. Well water is healthier, more refreshing, and less expensive than city water. However, installing a well has some important considerations and responsibilities. If you are thinking about getting a well, don’t hesitate to contact Service Plus Plumbing. We are here to meet all your plumbing and well installation needs!
