Three Things That Can Happen to Your Well After a Flood
Floods are the world's most common natural disaster, and they're a major problem in the United States. While some of the damage that floodwater causes is obvious, you may not know that flooding can damage your private well. Here are three things that can happen to your well after a flood.
It could collapse
Floodwater is a lot stronger than it looks. When floodwater is moving at only seven miles per hour, it's as strong as the wind speed of a EF5 tornado! The force of this water can damage the casing that surrounds your well, and that allows mud, sand, and other particles to flow into your well, leading to a collapse.
If your well collapses, a plumber may be able to repair it. These repairs may involve re-lining the well, but if the damage is extensive, replacing the well may be a more economical solution. If the well needs to be replaced, it will be plugged and re-drilled.
It could become contaminated
During normal conditions, your well water comes from groundwater, but in a flood situation, surface water can get into your well. While groundwater is filtered by the overlying soil and is typically naturally clean, the same isn't true for surface water. These floodwaters may pick up contaminants from sewage, industrial waste, or other sources as they surge across the ground.
In the event of a flood, you need to have your well water tested. As soon as the water recedes, have a laboratory test your water for the presence of bacteria and other contaminants. Until you get the results back, use water that you know is safe, like bottled water, for your home's water needs.
Its electrical system could be damaged
A pump allows water from your well to flow into your house, and this pump is powered by electricity. If the pump has been submerged under water due to a flood, its electrical system could have been damaged. Water can get inside the connections, and that can lead to an electrical short. Stay away from the well and pump to avoid getting an electric shock.
After the flood is over, your well should be inspected by an electrician. The electrician will check the electrical connections and repair any problems that were caused by the flood.
Private wells can be damaged by floods, so if your area experiences flooding, have your well inspected and tested before you start to use it again. Talk to a company such as Crown Plumbing INC for more information.
