What to Know About Well Water Systems & Associated Upkeep

It’s important to understand how well water systems work and what it takes to keep them in good shape. Unlike city water, which is managed by the local utility company, a well water system is something you’re responsible for maintaining yourself.

That means staying on top of testing, maintenance, and any repairs that come up. It can sound like a lot, but with the right knowledge and a good inspection, it’s very manageable. Here’s what to know about what tends to go wrong and what to watch out for.

How a Well Water System Works in a Residential Setting

A well water system pulls groundwater from deep underground and brings it into your home. It sounds simple, but there are several parts that all need to work together:

The well: A hole drilled into the ground that reaches the water supply below
The pump: Moves water from the well into your home
The pressure tank: Keeps water flowing steadily and stores extra for demand
Filters or treatment systems: Optional, but often used to improve taste and safety

Many homes in rural or outlying areas around Charlotte use well systems instead of city water. They give homeowners more independence, but also more responsibility when it comes to keeping the water clean and the system running smoothly.

Common Issues Found in Well Water Systems

Even when a well water system seems to be working fine, there can be issues happening behind the scenes. During inspections, we often come across:

Sediment or mineral buildup that can clog pipes or stain fixtures
Low water pressure from worn-out pumps or faulty tanks
Strange smells or tastes, like sulfur or metal, which could signal a water quality issue
Signs of contamination, especially from bacteria or nearby surface pollutantsThese problems might not be obvious at first, but they can affect your water quality, plumbing, and even your health. That’s why it’s important to have a professional take a close look—especially if you’re buying a home with a well and don’t know its history.

How Often Should You Inspect or Test a Well Water System?

It’s a good idea to test your well water at least once a year. The CDC recommends checking for things like:

Bacteria
Nitrates
pH levels
Other potential contaminants

If you’ve had recent flooding, heavy storms, or construction nearby, you should test more often. Inspections should also happen:

When you’re buying or selling a home
If your water changes in color, taste, or smell
If your water pressure suddenly drops or becomes inconsistent

At AHI, we check the visible parts of the well water system as part of our general home inspections. While we don’t perform lab testing, we flag signs of trouble and help homeowners understand when additional testing is needed.

Basic Upkeep for Homeowners Using Well Water

Owning a home with a well doesn’t have to be stressful. A few regular habits can go a long way toward keeping your water safe and your system running well:

Keep the area around the well clean and free from chemicals or debris
Check your pressure tank every now and then for short-cycling or odd sounds
Change water filters regularly if your system uses them
Pay attention to changes in water quality—cloudiness, smell, or taste

It also helps to keep a simple log of any maintenance, filter changes, or testing you’ve done. If a problem comes up later, or if you decide to sell your home, those records can be really useful.

Other Recommended Maintenance

In addition to basic upkeep, here are a few other smart steps to take:

Get a professional water test once a year—especially if you’ve never had one done
Have your pump and pressure tank inspected every few years
Flush your system if you notice sediment collecting in your water

Even if everything seems fine, wells can develop problems slowly. A little preventative maintenance helps catch small issues before they become expensive repairs—or health concerns.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, well water issues need expert attention. You should contact a pro if you notice:

Sudden drops in water pressure
Water that smells bad or looks cloudy
A pump that runs constantly or makes loud noises
Any unexplained changes in your water quality

These could be signs of pump failure, contamination, or other serious problems. If you’re buying a home with a well water system, getting a professional inspection is a smart move. At AHI, we’ve inspected hundreds of homes with well systems and know what to look for.

Conclusion

Well water systems offer a great way to manage your home’s water, but they come with a little extra responsibility. Regular testing, inspections, and basic maintenance go a long way in keeping your water safe and your system working properly.

If you’re buying a home with a well, or if you’re not sure when your system was last checked, AHI can help. We include visible well components in our home inspections and can let you know if anything needs a closer look. Schedule your inspection with AHI today to make sure your well water system is safe, efficient, and ready to support your home.