Annual Well Maintenance Checklist: Complete Guide (2025)

Your well system provides water for drinking, cooking, bathing, and every daily activity – yet most homeowners give it little thought until something goes wrong. Regular well maintenance prevents expensive emergencies, ensures safe drinking water, and extends the life of your equipment by years or even decades.

This comprehensive annual maintenance checklist helps you stay on top of well care with tasks organized by season. Whether you’re a new well owner or have had your system for years, following this guide keeps your water flowing safely and reliably year-round.

Why Well Maintenance Matters

Cost Prevention

Emergency Repairs are Expensive:

• Pump replacement: $500-3,000
• Well rehabilitation: $1,000-5,000
• Contamination treatment: $2,000-8,000
• Pressure tank replacement: $300-900

Preventive Maintenance is Cheap:

• Annual inspection: $150-300
• Water testing: $50-150
• Filter changes: $20-100
• Pressure checks: Free (DIY)

One emergency repair costs more than years of preventive maintenance.

Health Protection

Well Water Risks Without Maintenance:

• Bacterial contamination from surface water
• Nitrate contamination from fertilizers
• Chemical contamination from nearby activities
• Heavy metal exposure from corroding components
• Sediment harboring bacteria

Regular testing and inspection protect your family’s health.

System Longevity

Proper Maintenance Extends Life:

• Well pump: 15-25 years (vs. 8-12 without maintenance)
• Pressure tank: 15-20 years (vs. 5-10 without maintenance)
• Well casing: 30-50 years (vs. 20-30 without maintenance)
• Treatment equipment: Maximum rated lifespan

Your well system is a $10,000-20,000 investment. Protect it.

Spring Well Maintenance (March – May)

1. Post-Winter Inspection

What to Check: After winter, inspect for damage from freezing, ice, or temperature fluctuations.

Well Cap and Casing:

• Remove any debris around well cap
• Check well cap seal (should be watertight)
• Inspect for cracks or damage from frost heaving
• Verify vent screen intact (keeps insects out)
• Look for rust or corrosion on casing
• Ensure cap sits flush with casing

Action Items:

• Replace damaged well cap ($20-60)
• Re-seal if gaps present
• Clean debris and vegetation
• Paint exposed metal if rusty

Why It Matters: A compromised well cap allows surface water, insects, and contaminants to enter your well.

2. Test for Bacteria (Critical)

When to Test: Early spring, after snow melt and spring rains.

What to Test For:

• Total coliform bacteria
• E. coli bacteria
• Total bacteria count

Why Spring: Spring runoff and flooding increase contamination risk. Test now to catch any problems before summer.

How to Test:

Option 1: Mail-In Lab Test ($25-50)

• Order sterile collection kit online
• Follow collection instructions exactly
• Ship to lab same day
• Results in 24-48 hours

Option 2: Local Health Department (Often Free)

• Many county health departments test for free or low cost
• Call to schedule or pick up collection bottles
• Drop off sample at specified times

Option 3: Professional Collection ($100-150)

• Well company collects sample
• Ensures proper collection technique
• May include other tests

Safe Levels:

• Total coliform: 0 colonies
• E. coli: 0 colonies
• Any positive result requires action

If Test is Positive:

• Do not drink water
• Shock chlorinate well
• Retest after 3-5 days
• If still positive, investigate source and treat

3. Check Pressure Tank

Why Check Now: Spring is when you’ll notice any winter-related pressure issues.

How to Check Air Pressure:

Step 1: Turn Off Power

• Shut off pump at breaker or switch
• Open faucet to release system pressure
• Wait until water stops flowing

Step 2: Check Tank Pressure

• Remove plastic cap on tank air valve (looks like tire valve)
• Use tire pressure gauge
• Note reading

Step 3: Compare to Cut-In Pressure

• Tank pressure should be 2 PSI below cut-in pressure
• If cut-in is 40 PSI, tank should be 38 PSI
• If cut-in is 30 PSI, tank should be 28 PSI

Step 4: Adjust if Needed

• Use air compressor to add air if low
• Release air if too high
• Re-check after adjusting

Signs Tank Needs Replacement:

• Waterlogged (no air pressure reading possible)
• Pump cycles very frequently (every 30-60 seconds)
• Tank exterior rust or corrosion
• Tank is 10+ years old and showing issues

Action Items:

• Adjust pressure to correct level
• Note date checked for records
• Schedule tank replacement if waterlogged

4. Inspect Visible Plumbing

What to Check: Look at all accessible plumbing from well to house.

Pitless Adapter:

• Check for leaks at ground level
• Verify adapter secure
• Look for standing water near well

Wellhouse (if applicable):

• Check for leaks or moisture
• Inspect pipe insulation
• Verify heat trace working
• Check ventilation

Pressure Gauge:

• Note operating pressure range
• Watch gauge during pump cycle
• Should show normal range (30-50 or 40-60 PSI typical)

Pressure Switch:

• Listen for normal click when pump starts/stops
• Check for rust or corrosion
• Verify cover in place

Action Items:

• Tighten any loose connections
• Replace worn insulation
• Note any unusual pressure readings

5. Clean Well Area

Exterior Well Maintenance:

Around Wellhead:

• Clear grass, weeds, and vegetation (3-foot radius)
• Remove any stored items near well
• Ensure positive drainage away from well
• Check that ground slopes away from wellhead

Why This Matters: Vegetation and debris trap moisture and can harbor bacteria. Poor drainage allows surface water to collect near well opening.

Wellhouse Cleaning:

• Sweep floor
• Remove stored chemicals or materials
• Check for rodent entry points
• Ensure adequate ventilation

Action Items:

• Trim vegetation regularly
• Build up soil to create slope if needed
• Seal any cracks in wellhouse
• Install rodent screens on vents

6. Schedule Professional Inspection

What Professionals Check:

• Well depth and water level
• Pump amp draw (efficiency)
• Well recovery rate
• Casing integrity
• Cap and seal condition
• System electrical components
• Flow rate test
• Complete system evaluation

When to Schedule:

• Every 3-5 years minimum
• Annually if well is older (15+ years)
• After any water quality issues
• Before buying or selling home

Cost: $150-300

What You Get:

• Detailed system report
• Problems identified early
• Professional recommendations
• Peace of mind

Summer Well Maintenance (June – August)

1. Monitor Water Level and Recovery

Why Summer: Summer typically has lowest water levels due to:

• Reduced rainfall
• Increased water usage (lawn, garden)
• Lower water table
• Higher demand from irrigation

How to Monitor:

Check Recovery Rate:

• Run water for 15 minutes
• Note if pressure drops
• Turn off water
• Time how long to recover normal pressure
• Slow recovery indicates low water level

Listen to Pump:

• Pump running longer than usual?
• More frequent cycling?
• Air sputtering from faucets?
• These indicate possible low water

Action Items:

• Reduce water usage during dry periods
• Avoid running irrigation and appliances simultaneously
• Consider water conservation measures
• If severely low, have professional measure depth to water

Signs of Low Water Level:

• Pump runs continuously
• Pressure drops during use
• Air in water lines
• Sediment in water (pump drawing from bottom)

Critical: If pump runs dry, it can burn out. Shut off immediately if you hear pump but no water.

2. Check and Replace Filters

What Filters to Check:

Sediment Filters:

• Check pressure drop across filter
• Replace if pressure significantly lower
• Typical life: 3-6 months
• Summer demand may require earlier replacement

Carbon Filters:

• Replace every 6-12 months
• Summer chlorine smell means replacement due
• Taste/odor return indicates exhausted filter

Iron Filters:

• Check for iron breakthrough (orange water)
• Backwash if equipped
• Replace media if breakthrough despite backwashing

Whole House Filters:

• Check flow rate
• Replace pre-filters
• Clean filter housings

Action Items:

• Mark calendar with replacement dates
• Order replacement filters in advance
• Keep spare filters on hand
• Clean housings when replacing filters

3. Inspect and Clean Pressure Switch

Why Summer: Dust and humidity affect switches. High summer usage can reveal issues.

What to Check:

Exterior:

• Remove cover (power off first!)
• Look for corrosion
• Check for burned contacts
• Verify wires secure

Contacts:

• Should be clean and shiny
• Burned or pitted contacts need replacement
• Slight filing acceptable if minor pitting

Settings:

• Cut-in pressure (pump starts)
• Cut-out pressure (pump stops)
• Typical: 30/50 or 40/60 PSI
• Shouldn’t drift significantly

Cleaning:

• Turn off power
• Use contact cleaner spray
• Wipe with clean cloth
• Let dry completely
• Don’t adjust settings unless necessary

Action Items:

• Clean contacts if accessible
• Replace switch if badly corroded ($15-40)
• Test switch operation after cleaning

4. Test Water Quality (Annual Test)

Comprehensive Annual Test:

Basic Test ($50-100):

• pH
• Total dissolved solids (TDS)
• Hardness
• Iron and manganese
• Nitrates
• Bacteria

Extended Test ($150-300):

• Heavy metals (lead, arsenic, copper)
• Pesticides and herbicides
• VOCs (volatile organic compounds)
• Uranium (in certain areas)
• Sulfates

When to Test:

• Mid-summer for most accurate baseline
• Water conditions most stable
• Seasonal variations minimized

How to Test:

DIY Test Kits:

• Purchase from hardware store or online
• Follow instructions exactly
• Limited parameters
• Good for screening

Laboratory Testing:

• Order kit online or from health department
• Collect sample following instructions
• Ship or drop off same day
• Most comprehensive and accurate

Action Items:

• Test annually minimum
• Keep records of all test results
• Compare year-over-year
• Address any concerning results

Safe Levels (EPA Standards):

• pH: 6.5-8.5
• Nitrates: <10 mg/L
• Iron: <0.3 mg/L (aesthetic, not health)
• Lead: <15 ppb
• Arsenic: <10 ppb
• Bacteria: 0 colonies

5. Check Electrical Connections

Why Summer: High humidity can cause electrical issues.

What to Check:

Control Box (3-Wire Pumps):

• Capacitor condition
• Wire connections tight
• No signs of burning or overheating
• Box cover secure

Pressure Switch:

• Wires secure
• No corrosion on terminals
• Cover in place when finished

Well Seal:

• Electrical entry sealed
• No gaps for insects
• Weatherhead intact

Safety First:

• Turn off power before inspecting
• Don’t touch live wires
• Call electrician if unsure
• Test GFCI if circuit has one

Action Items:

• Tighten any loose wires
• Replace corroded terminals
• Seal any electrical entries
• Test GFCI monthly

6. Flush and Sanitize System (Every 2-3 Years)

When to Sanitize:

• Positive bacteria test
• After repairs or work on well
• Strange taste or odor develops
• Every 2-3 years as preventive measure

How to Shock Chlorinate:

Step 1: Calculate Chlorine Needed

• Based on well depth and diameter
• Typical: 1-2 gallons household bleach
• Or use well chlorination tablets

Step 2: Prepare Well

• Remove well cap
• Pour chlorine down well casing
• Attach hose to outdoor faucet
• Run hose back into well to circulate

Step 3: Circulate

• Run hose into well for 1-2 hours
• Circulates chlorine throughout well
• Ensures contact with casing

Step 4: Treat Household Plumbing

• Run each faucet until smell chlorine
• Flush toilets
• Run washing machine through cycle
• Run dishwasher empty
• Let sit overnight (12-24 hours)

Step 5: Flush System

• Connect hose to outdoor faucet
• Run until no chlorine smell
• May take several hours
• Don’t use water during this time

Step 6: Test Water

• Wait 3-5 days after flushing
• Test for bacteria
• If still positive, repeat or call professional

Important: Don’t drink water during chlorination or until tested negative after flushing.

Fall Well Maintenance (September – November)

1. Winterization Preparation

Why Fall: Prepare system before freezing temperatures arrive.

Insulation Check:

Exposed Pipes:

• Inspect pipe insulation condition
• Replace damaged insulation
• Add extra insulation in cold areas
• Seal air leaks in pump house or crawl space

Wellhouse:

• Check heater function if equipped
• Test thermostat
• Inspect insulation
• Seal drafts and gaps

Heat Tape:

• Test heat tape before winter
• Replace if not working
• Verify thermostat function
• Plug in if not already energized

Action Items:

• Replace worn insulation ($10-30)
• Test heat tape ($20-40 if replacement needed)
• Seal drafts in wellhouse
• Stock emergency supplies

2. Check Well Cap Seal (Critical)

Why Critical: Fall rains and melting snow can enter poorly sealed wells.

What to Check:

• Rubber gasket between cap and casing
• Cap bolts tight
• No cracks in cap
• Vent screen intact
• No gaps visible

How to Check:

• Remove debris from around cap
• Visually inspect seal
• Check for standing water near well
• Verify cap sits flush

Action Items:

• Replace gasket if cracked ($5-15)
• Tighten loose bolts
• Replace cap if damaged ($25-80)
• Seal any visible gaps

Why It Matters: Surface water entering your well is the number one cause of bacterial contamination.

3. Test for Seasonal Contaminants

Why Fall: Post-harvest agricultural runoff increases nitrates and pesticides in groundwater.

What to Test:

• Nitrates (critical if near farmland)
• Pesticides (if agricultural area)
• Bacteria (after fall rains)

Who Should Test:

• Wells near agricultural areas
• Wells less than 50 feet deep
• Pregnant women or infants in home
• Anyone in agricultural community

Action Items:

• Test nitrates ($25-40)
• Test pesticides if concerned ($100-200)
• Retest bacteria after heavy rains

Nitrate Concerns:

• Unsafe for infants at >10 mg/L
• Cannot be removed by boiling
• Requires reverse osmosis or ion exchange
• Source reduction (agricultural practices) best solution

4. Inspect and Service Pressure Tank

Why Fall: Good time for maintenance before winter demand.

Full Pressure Tank Service:

Step 1: Check Air Pressure (as described in Spring section)

Step 2: Drain Tank Sediment

• Turn off pump
• Open drain valve at bottom of tank
• Let water run until clear
• Close valve
• Turn pump back on

Step 3: Check for Waterlogging

• Thump tank with knuckle
• Should sound hollow on top half
• Solid sound means waterlogged
• Waterlogged tanks need replacement

Step 4: Inspect Exterior

• Check for rust
• Look for dents or damage
• Verify mounting secure
• Check connections for leaks

Signs Tank Needs Replacement:

• Frequent pump cycling
• Can’t maintain air pressure
• Rust or corrosion
• Age 10+ years with issues

Action Items:

• Adjust air pressure if needed
• Drain sediment
• Note condition for future reference
• Budget for replacement if old

5. Clean and Service Treatment Equipment

What to Service:

Water Softener:

• Clean brine tank
• Check salt level
• Verify regeneration cycle
• Clean injector and screens
• Test output hardness

Iron Filter:

• Backwash thoroughly
• Check resin condition
• Clean control valve
• Test for iron breakthrough

UV System:

• Replace UV lamp (annually)
• Clean quartz sleeve
• Check power supply
• Verify lamp hour meter

Sediment Filters:

• Replace all cartridges
• Clean housings
• Check for leaks
• Verify adequate flow

Action Items:

• Order replacement parts now
• Schedule service before winter
• Stock extra filters
• Mark calendar for next service

6. Check Well Recovery and Yield

Why Fall: After summer draw, verify well recovering properly.

How to Test Recovery:

Step 1: Run Water

• Open outdoor faucet fully
• Run for 15 minutes
• Note flow rate (gallons per minute)

Step 2: Observe System

• Does pressure drop significantly?
• Does pump cycle continuously?
• Any air or sputtering?

Step 3: Recovery Time

• Turn off water
• Time until system pressure recovers
• Should recover in 5-10 minutes

Good Recovery:

• Maintains pressure during 15-min test
• Recovers quickly when stopped
• Consistent flow rate

Poor Recovery:

• Pressure drops significantly
• Pump runs continuously
• Long recovery time
• May indicate low water level or well problem

Action Items:

• Note recovery rate for comparison
• If poor recovery, have well tested professionally
• May need well rehabilitation or deepening
• Plan for any necessary work

Winter Well Maintenance (December – February)

1. Prevent Freezing

Critical Winter Task: Frozen pipes or pump can cause thousands in damage.

What to Protect:

Wellhouse:

• Keep heat on (thermostat set to 45-50°F minimum)
• Check heater function weekly
• Ensure door closes properly
• Add extra insulation if needed

Heat Tape:

• Verify operational (warm to touch)
• Check along entire length
• Look for damaged areas
• Keep plugged in continuously

Exposed Pipes:

• Maintain insulation
• Keep garage/crawl space doors closed
• Let faucet drip in extreme cold
• Open cabinet doors under sinks

Action Items:

• Check wellhouse temperature daily in extreme cold
• Test heat tape weekly
• Keep backup heat source ready
• Know location of main shut-off

Emergency Preparation:

• Keep bottled water on hand
• Have emergency heat source
• Know how to shut off and drain system
• Program emergency plumber number

2. Monitor System Performance

Weekly Checks:

Listen to Pump:

• Normal cycle frequency?
• Running longer than usual?
• Any unusual sounds?

Check Pressure:

• Gauge reading normal?
• Steady pressure at faucets?
• No fluctuations?

Water Quality:

• Color normal?
• Taste/odor normal?
• No sediment visible?

Action Items:

• Note any changes
• Address issues promptly
• Don’t ignore unusual behavior

3. Maintain Snow/Ice Clearance

Why It Matters: Access to well and equipment critical in emergencies.

What to Clear:

• Path to well cap
• Well house door
• Access to breaker panel
• Emergency shut-off locations

Action Items:

• Clear after each snow
• Keep sand/salt handy
• Maintain clear path
• Mark wellhead location with stake

4. Test GFCI Protection Monthly

If well is on GFCI circuit:

How to Test:

• Press TEST button
• Should trip immediately
• Press RESET to restore power
• If doesn’t trip, replace GFCI

Why Important: GFCI protects against electrical shock, especially important for wet locations.

5. Check for Ice Dams and Water Entry

Around Well Cap:

• No ice buildup around cap
• Water draining away from well
• No icicles from cap vent

Wellhouse:

• No ice blocking door
• Roof draining properly
• No ice inside building

Action Items:

• Remove ice carefully (don’t damage cap)
• Improve drainage if needed
• Insulate roof to prevent ice dams

6. Indoor System Check

During Cold Weather:

Check Pressure Tank:

• Located in heated space?
• Insulated if in cold area?
• No ice on exterior?

Treatment Equipment:

• Water softener functioning?
• Filters not frozen?
• Equipment room warm enough?

Action Items:

• Ensure treatment equipment stays above 35°F
• Protect from freezing
• Check operation during cold snaps

Emergency Preparedness Checklist

Keep On Hand

Emergency Supplies:

• Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day for 3 days)
• Flashlight and batteries
• Emergency numbers (plumber, well company, electrician)
• Basic tools (wrench, screwdriver, pliers)
• Spare fuses or circuit breakers
• Duct tape and plastic sheeting

System Information:

• Well depth and diameter
• Pump specifications
• Pressure switch settings
• Treatment system manuals
• Water test results
• Service history

Emergency Contacts

Keep These Numbers Handy:

• Licensed well driller
• 24-hour plumber
• Electrician
• Local health department
• Water testing lab
• Equipment manufacturers

Emergency Procedures

If Water Stops:

1. Check circuit breaker
2. Check pressure switch
3. Check pressure tank
4. Call professional if can’t diagnose

If Water Quality Changes:

1. Stop drinking immediately
2. Test for bacteria
3. Shock chlorinate if needed
4. Find source of contamination

If Pump Won’t Shut Off:

1. Check pressure switch
2. Check for leaks
3. Turn off if running dry
4. Call professional

Record Keeping

What to Track

Create Well Maintenance Log:

System Information:

• Well depth
• Well diameter
• Casing type and depth
• Screen depth
• Pump type and size
• Tank size and pressure
• Installation dates

Maintenance History:

• Filter changes (dates and types)
• Pump repairs or replacement
• Professional inspections
• Tank replacement
• Treatment equipment service

Water Tests:

• Test date
• Parameters tested
• Results
• Lab used
• Any actions taken

Observations:

• Changes in pressure
• Water quality changes
• System problems
• Seasonal variations

Benefits of Record Keeping

• Track system performance over time
• Identify patterns or recurring issues
• Schedule maintenance proactively
• Document for home sale
• Warranty claims
• Insurance purposes

Cost Summary: Annual Well Maintenance

DIY Maintenance:

• Water testing: $50-150
• Filter replacements: $50-200
• Chemicals (chlorination): $20-40
• Supplies and materials: $50-100
• Total DIY: $170-490/year

Professional Services:

• Annual inspection: $150-300 (every 3-5 years)
• Well rehabilitation: $1,000-5,000 (if needed)
• Pump replacement: $500-3,000 (every 15-25 years)

Prevention vs. Emergency:

• Annual prevention: $200-500
• Average emergency: $1,500-5,000
• Prevention pays for itself many times over

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I test my well water?

A: Test annually for bacteria, nitrates, and basic parameters. Test every 2-3 years for comprehensive analysis including heavy metals and pesticides. Test immediately if water quality changes.

Q: Can I skip professional inspections if doing DIY maintenance?

A: Professional inspection every 3-5 years is recommended even with good DIY maintenance. Professionals can identify issues not visible to homeowners and use specialized equipment.

Q: What’s the most important maintenance task?

A: Testing for bacteria. Contaminated water is a health risk. Second is protecting well cap seal – preventing contamination is easier than treating it.

Q: How long should a well pump last?

A: 15-25 years with proper maintenance, 8-12 years without. Maintenance significantly extends pump life.

Q: Do I need to maintain my well if water seems fine?

A: Yes. Many problems aren’t visible or tasteable. Bacteria, nitrates, and many contaminants have no odor or taste. Regular testing and maintenance ensure continued safety.

Q: What happens if I skip maintenance?

A: Risk of health issues from contamination, expensive emergency repairs, shortened equipment life, and potential well failure. Maintenance is cheap insurance.

Conclusion

Well maintenance isn’t complicated or expensive, but skipping it can lead to costly problems and health risks. Following this annual checklist keeps your water safe, your equipment running efficiently, and prevents expensive emergencies.

The key is consistency – make maintenance a habit. Mark your calendar for each season’s tasks, keep good records, and don’t ignore small problems before they become big ones. Your well system is a significant investment that provides essential water for your family. Treat it with care, and it will serve you reliably for decades.

Remember: an hour of prevention is worth days of emergency repairs and thousands of dollars. Start your maintenance routine today, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your water is safe and your system is protected.