For Groundwater Awareness Week March 5 through 11, the Eastern Connecticut Conservation District is reminding homeowners who get their drinking water from private on-site wells that it is a good idea to schedule a “well checkup” once a year.  

This checkup includes testing your water for harmful pollutants. 

The National Groundwater Association suggests that at least the following activities are included as part of this well checkup. 

* A flow test to determine system output, along with a check of the water level before and during pumping (if possible), pump motor performance (check amp load, grounding, and line voltage), and pressure tank and pressure switch contact.

* An inspection of well equipment to assure that it is sanitary and meets local code requirements.

* A test of your water for coliform bacteria, nitrates and anything else of local concern. Other typical additional tests are those for iron, manganese, water hardness, sulfides and other water constituents that cause problems with plumbing, staining, water appearance and odor. Connecticut has a high prevalence for groundwater that can corrode your pipes and leach out copper and lead into your drinking water, so it is a good idea to have your water tested for corrosiveness.  You should check with your well contractor, Connecticut Department of Public Health, or your local health department for information on other local groundwater quality issues.

* A concise, clear, written report should be delivered to you following the checkup that explains results and recommendations, and includes all laboratory and other test results.

As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to maintain and know the condition of your private water supply. The majority of homeowners only test their water when they buy their home and assume nothing will ever change.  A failing septic system can pollute your groundwater and increase the amounts of nitrates and bacteria in your drinking water supply. 

 Road runoff can increase the amount of salts in groundwater.  Many water treatment options are available, but knowing whether or not you need one is the first step. 

For more information, please visit the National Groundwater Association website http://www.wellowner.org/annual-checkup.