(NAPSA)—Just as you check the furnace or smokedetector batteries seasonally, now is a good time to have an annual waterwell checkup—before the peak water use season begins, according to the National Ground Water Association (NGWA). An annualcheckup bya licensed or certified water well contractor helps ensure problem-free service. Preventative maintenanceis less costly than emergency maintenance, and it can prolongthelife of your well and related equipment in much the same way good car maintenance does. According to the NGWAa well checkup should include: A flow test to determine well output. A water-level check before and during pumping,if possible. A pump motor performance check that includes amp load, grounding andvoltage. e A pressure tank and pressure switch contact check. A well equipment inspection to assure it is sanitary and meets local codes. A water test for coliform bacteria, nitrates and anything else of local concern (Additional tests may be recommended if water appearscloudyoroily, if bacterial growthis visible on fixtures, or if water treatment devices are not working properly). A clear written report that explains results and recommendations, and includes all laboratory and othertest results. You can arrange a checkup by contacting a local water well contractor who conducts the type of maintenance recommended by NGWA; locating NGWA-member contractors in your area through the “Contractor Lookup”feature at An annual water well checkup will help ensure problem-free service. the Web site, www.wellowner.org or calling NGWAat 800-551-7379; and checking the local phone book under “Well Drilling and Service.” Check with other well owners for good contractor referrals, and ask the contractor for a list of references. NGWAalso recommends: Keeping hazardous chemicals such as paint, fertilizer, pesticides and motoroil far away from your well, and maintaining a “clean zone” of at least 50 feet between your well and any kennels or livestock operations. * Maintaining proper separa- tion between your well and buildings, waste systems or chemical storage areas. Your water well contractor should be familiar with local codes. * Periodically checking the well cover or well cap to ensure it is in good repair and securely attached. Safely store well records including the construction report, and annual water well system maintenance and water testing results. For more information about wells, go to www.wellowner.org or call NGWAat 800-551-7379.
