As the sun blazes and temperatures soar, summer heatwaves are becoming an increasingly common challenge for homeowners—especially those who rely on well water. While summer brings about leisurely days and the joy of outdoor activities, it also poses significant risks to well water quality.
Understanding these impacts is crucial for ensuring safe and healthy water consumption. So, our Easterday-Wilson team is here to cover everything you’ll need.
How Heatwaves Affect Well Water Quality
- Decreased Water Levels: During heatwaves, extended periods of high temperatures can lead to drought conditions, significantly reducing water levels in wells. When water levels drop, wells may draw water from shallower sources, which are more susceptible to contamination. This reduction impacts water availability and concentrates existing impurities, affecting overall water quality.
- Increased Concentration of Contaminants: Lower water levels mean that any contaminants already present in your well are now more concentrated. Common contaminants include nitrates, which can originate from fertilizers and animal waste, and heavy metals like lead and arsenic, which may seep into groundwater from natural deposits or industrial activities. These pollutants become more problematic as their concentrations increase, posing more significant health risks.
- Promotion of Bacterial Growth: Warm conditions provide an ideal environment for the proliferation of bacteria. These microorganisms thrive in warm, stagnant water, and their increased presence can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses and other serious health issues if consumed.
Potential Health Risks
Contaminated well water can have immediate and long-term health implications. Drinking water with high levels of nitrates, for instance, can be particularly dangerous for infants, leading to a condition known as methemoglobinemia or “blue baby syndrome.” Bacterial contamination can cause various illnesses, from mild digestive upset to severe infections.
Tips for Well Owners: Monitoring and Maintenance
To safeguard your well water during the sweltering heat, consider the following proactive measures:
- Regular Testing: Conduct water quality tests before and during summer to detect any changes in contaminant levels. You can hire a professional service for a comprehensive analysis. Testing should be done at least annually but more frequently during heatwaves.
- Inspect Your Well: Check your well regularly for signs of damage or contamination. Ensure that the well cap is intact and free from cracks. Inspect the area around the well for any potential contamination sources, like animal waste or chemical spills.
- Water Level Monitoring: Monitor your well’s water level. If you notice a significant drop, limit water usage and address potential contamination risks promptly. Installing a water level monitor can provide real-time data and help you manage water use efficiently.
- Proper Well Location and Construction: Ensure your well is situated at a safe distance from septic tanks, livestock pens, and other potential sources of contamination. A well constructed with a proper seal and casing can prevent surface water from seeping in and carrying contaminants.
- Disinfection: If bacterial contamination is detected, shock chlorination can be effective. However, it should be performed by professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of local conditions and advisories. Local health departments often issue warnings and guidance during extreme weather events, which can help you take timely action.
Contact us For All Your Water Treatment and Filtration Needs
If you notice a strange smell in your water or contaminants, Easterday-Wilson Water Services can help. We treat countless water quality problems and eliminate common water contaminants on a daily basis.
Contact us for additional information and schedule your free water evaluation today.