Winterize Pumps And Water Well Before Cold Weather

Winter in Wisconsin possess challenges to homeowners relying upon a water well to serve their Cross Plains WI area home. The extreme temperature common in January and February needn’t pose a threat. Plan ahead and winterize pumps and plumbing systems and avoid frozen pipes and pump issues.

There are three common concerns as winter approaches:

1. Frozen pipes in the plumbing – a residential well systemis designed to access water that rarely freezes. Most components are housed well below the freeze line in the ground. But pipes moving water from the well to the house eventually appear above ground. To keep them from freezing wrap pipes with insulation or heated tape. Insulation in adjacent walls, floors ceilings protect pipes in crawl spaces and similar areas inside.
2. Well pump concerns – well pumps are often housed underground, but many are installed in above ground locations. There is seldom a need to winterize pumps installed underground, but inspect the installation regularly to be sure it is properly sealed and secure. Protect above ground installations that aren’t inside your home with an insulated shelter or well house – often about the size and shape of a custom dog house.
3. Power Outages – when the electricity goes out so does the water supply. Losing powers is one of the most serious threats to a water well pump system. There are two options to restore power quickly: portable generators and permanent emergency standby generators. Portable units must have a reliable supply of gasoline or diesel fuel to keep them going for extended periods. Backup generators are fueled by natural gas or propane sources –

   

   usually the same source that heats the house.

Components Freeze the Water Well Does Not

With the water level well below the worst possible freeze point, the well itself is not in danger of freezing. Water supply pipes, pumps and plumbing components are. Preventive maintenance goes a long way.

The first step in a pre-winter maintenance check is a simple inspection to be sure the well cap and casing is clean and in good shape. Remove dirt and debris and always keep any potential contaminants are a distance – things like motor oil, fuels, fertilizers and pesticide.

If you have any questions or concerns consult your water well professional for well pumps Black Earth WI servicing. That includes mechanical concerns for well components as well as changes in color, taste of smell in the water.

At the end of the major growing season when agricultural practices apply chemicals and after the severe flooding of 2018 is an ideal time for a complete water test. The quality of your drinking water is too important to take for granted.

Winterize Pumps For Irrigation Systems

If you use an irrigation system for your landscape it has to be winterized, too. Many irrigation installations use secondary, smaller pumps and they need pre-winter attention along with pipes and sprinkler heads. Unless your system is very basic, consult a professional to protect it.

Here are the basics to get started:

• Turn off the water at the main valve
• Set automatic timers to the “rain” setting or Off
• Open every valve to release pressure within the system
• Drain all the components you can that are likely to freeze

You professional will make sure the next steps are completed correctly:

• Blow out all the lines with compressed air to remove as much moisture as possible
• Cycle the system’s zones to be sure all lines are empty
• Sprinkler heads that raise and lower automatically can be lubricated with a material that won’t freeze and cause them to crack

Professionals Deliver Peace of Mind

Installing and maintaining residential wells, pumps and related accessories is vital in southern Wisconsin. Rely upon the trained, licensed professionals at Sauk Plains Plumbing and Pumps for an appropriate maintenance schedule. Call or email Sauk Plains Plumbing, 608-798-2121, to winterize pumps and ensure your water well is in shape for winter in Cross Plains, Verona, Waunakee and Middleton WI.

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