Not all wells are the same

When people buy a property that has a well, they must be careful about the use of the water in it. First, they need to know more about the history of the well. If it has been condemned or closed due to contamination, it is most likely not safe to use.

Wells that are very old and unused may conform to current standards. According to the EPA recommendation, the minimum distance from wells to cattle fields and septic tanks should be 50 feet. Additionally, they must be at least 100 feet from oil tanks (as well as other chemical storage tanks) and sealed manure storage. When it comes to manure piles, they should be 250 feet apart.

Wells must be tested for contaminants on a regular basis. There should be no fertilizers or pesticides near the well. Using these chemicals, even in small amounts, can cause them to reach groundwater.

Also, it is essential to consider the type of well. There are different types of wells and each has a different level of contamination risk. The three main types of wells are as follows:

Well types

  • Types of dug or boring wells

These are conventional wells that are dug into the ground with a shovel or backhoe. They are usually lined for support with the use of stones or bricks. The most modern versions use tiles or other materials to cover them. Most of these wells are shallow (10 to 30 feet deep) and can be wide in diameter. Such wells are vulnerable to contaminants when the surrounding soil is adulterated.

  • Driven wells

These wells use a pipe that is driven directly into the ground. While dug wells can be shallow, they are often deeper than dug or drilled wells (30 to 40 feet deep). Driven wells are designed to avoid nearby dirt and contaminants. However, these wells absorb aquifers close to the surface. For this reason, drilled wells can be prone to the types of contaminants that contaminate surface water.

  • Drilled wells

Today, drilled wells are built into the ground with the use of rotary or percussion machines. These wells can be shallow or as deep as thousands of feet and can be lined with a wide range of materials. They can also be constantly encased in a metal pipe. These wells have less risk of contamination as long as they are deep and lined with durable materials.

No matter what type of well people have, it is essential to maintain it. All types of wells should be periodically tested for contaminants.

Does well water have health benefits when consumed?

Contamination can be a concern for well water, however it also has health benefits. However, this needs more research, but these are the benefits that are being considered:

  • Hydration: Generally, drinking water has its health benefits.

  • Weight loss and improved brain function: Well water may not have the chemicals that are present in public water supplies. Chemicals like fluoride can negatively affect weight and cognitive function. In addition, drinking water stimulates the metabolism, which helps to lose weight.

  • Environmental benefits: Drinking well water will minimize the use of plastic bottles.

When it comes to the health benefits of well water, more study is needed. However, those who feel comfortable drinking well water can continue as long as they take the necessary precautions.

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