Water Well & Pump FAQs

Get answers to our most frequently asked water well and pump questions!

Have a question? It’s likely been asked before.

We’ve compiled a list of FAQs about wells and our services below.

If you still have questions, email or call us, and we’ll be happy to help.

Well Resources & Links

Alberta Working Well (resources for well owners)

Video: Taking Water Well Samples (how to test your water)

Alberta Health Services (Testing your drinking water)

Water Wells That Last (PDF guide for private well owners in Alberta)

The Water Program (grants & funding for farm projects)

Well Maintenance FAQs

Where do I drill my water well?

Your well should be placed where it meets all regulatory setbacks from septic systems, lagoons, power lines, barns, fuel/fertilizer storage tanks etc. Place your well logistically to consider for future property development and access for service and maintenance.
What water well maintenance can I do myself (vs what a professional should do)?

You can typically perform general water system checks, shock chlorination, and annual visual inspections on your own. However, when drilling new wells, installing new or maintaining pump systems, adding water softeners, or decommissioning an old well, we suggest hiring a professional who has the equipment and experience to do it right the first time.
How often do I need to do maintenance on my well?

Annual well inspections and maintenance are usually recommended unless you have any concerns. Here are a few things to look for during your maintenance: - Check that the well cap is secure and tight - Ensure the vent is not blocked - Look for signs of settling or cracking around the surface of the well casing - Check for leaky pipes between the well and the house - Ensure pipes and connections are tight throughout the system - Do water tests to check for harmful contaminants and PH levels.
What causes water well contamination?

Your water well can become contaminated by: - Water runoff or snow melt (washing microorganisms down the well) - Leakages from nearby storage tanks or septic fields - The build-up of bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and minerals - Incorrectly installed wells or equipment You can minimize chances of contamination by: - Keep grass trimmed within a 3-metre radius of your well - Ensure the area is sloped away from your well - Keep the surrounding area clear of animal wastes, leaves, debris, snow, and other organic or inorganic matter - Do not store or use chemicals (fertilizer, herbicides, fuel, oil) near the well
Can I pour chlorine pellets or bleach in my well?

Chlorine is corrosive and can cause damage to pitless adapters, well casing, pumps, wires, and fittings. Pellets and tablets can also cement your pump in place making service work difficult and in worst case scenarios, a new well is required. Liquid Bleach/Chlorine has a shelf life and depending on your water PH level, can be ineffective in killing bacteria.
What do I do with an old well on my property?

Unused wells are the most common source of contamination to local groundwater. If you have an old well that is not in use it should be properly decommissioned. You can be held responsible for groundwater contamination from an old well on your property.

MyWater Drilling Company FAQ

Where do I drill my water well?

Your well should be placed where it meets all regulatory setbacks from septic systems, lagoons, power lines, barns, fuel/fertilizer storage tanks etc. Place your well logistically to consider for future property development and access for service and maintenance.
What water well maintenance can I do myself (vs what a professional should do)?

You can typically perform general water system checks, shock chlorination, and annual visual inspections on your own. However, when drilling new wells, installing new or maintaining pump systems, adding water softeners, or decommissioning an old well, we suggest hiring a professional who has the equipment and experience to do it right the first time.
How often do I need to do maintenance on my well?

Annual well inspections and maintenance are usually recommended unless you have any concerns. Here are a few things to look for during your maintenance: - Check that the well cap is secure and tight - Ensure the vent is not blocked - Look for signs of settling or cracking around the surface of the well casing - Check for leaky pipes between the well and the house - Ensure pipes and connections are tight throughout the system - Do water tests to check for harmful contaminants and PH levels.
What causes water well contamination?

Your water well can become contaminated by: - Water runoff or snow melt (washing microorganisms down the well) - Leakages from nearby storage tanks or septic fields - The build-up of bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and minerals - Incorrectly installed wells or equipment You can minimize chances of contamination by: - Keep grass trimmed within a 3-metre radius of your well - Ensure the area is sloped away from your well - Keep the surrounding area clear of animal wastes, leaves, debris, snow, and other organic or inorganic matter - Do not store or use chemicals (fertilizer, herbicides, fuel, oil) near the well
Can I pour chlorine pellets or bleach in my well?

Chlorine is corrosive and can cause damage to pitless adapters, well casing, pumps, wires, and fittings. Pellets and tablets can also cement your pump in place making service work difficult and in worst case scenarios, a new well is required. Liquid Bleach/Chlorine has a shelf life and depending on your water PH level, can be ineffective in killing bacteria.
What do I do with an old well on my property?

Unused wells are the most common source of contamination to local groundwater. If you have an old well that is not in use it should be properly decommissioned. You can be held responsible for groundwater contamination from an old well on your property.