5 Tips For Well Pump Owners During A Hurricane

Hurricanes bring many dangers with powerful gusts of wind and rain. Not only can hurricanes leave destruction in their path, but they can also cause severe damage to your well and pump system or contaminate your private water source. North Florida Water Systems Inc outlines five tips for well owners to keep your well and your family safe with access to clean water throughout a hurricane.

For professional water testing and treatment or well pump repairs after a hurricane or tropical storm, contact the professionals at North Florida Water Systems Inc to schedule well services, including quick and efficient water treatment services.

Clean Around Your Well Pump System

Before the storm hits, quickly examine storm drains to remove grass clippings, branches, leaves, and other debris. Clogged storm drains can accumulate excess water, causing flooding or further property damage. High winds and flood water are common during a hurricane and may carry debris that can loosen well hardware, dislodge well construction materials, or damage well casings.

Fill Your Tub & Stock Up On Spring Water

It is common for flooding to occur in your well during a hurricane, which is why we recommend that you stock up on spring water for cooking, drinking, and bathing. Florida’s Division of Emergency Management has prepared a hurricane preparedness checklist that recommends stocking one gallon of water per person per day. Homeowners can fill bathtubs with well water for flushing toilets, washing hands, and cleaning dishes. Make sure not to drink this water because lead can leak into the water from the glaze used on bathtubs.

Don’t Use Electrical Systems After A Hurricane

If the electrical system of your well pump has flooded, do not turn on the system. Even if it looks dry and safe, there could still be moisture present, which can cause an electrical fire or even electrocution. Instead, let a qualified electrician or well pump contractor inspect the well pump.

Maintain Vigilance During The Storm

While there isn’t much to do during a hurricane other than ride it out with your family, you can keep a watchful eye out for flooding and be frugal with the amount of stored water used. In a worst-case scenario, you may be able to use water from the water heater, but only if electricity and gas are turned off before accessing the water.

Disinfect Your Well

After the storm, thoroughly check for cracks in the well casing or well cap to indicate whether the well has been compromised. Any signs of erosion could mean that floodwaters have leaked into the well. Even if the well shows no signs of structural damage, it is still a good idea to contact a licensed well water company to perform disinfection and test the water.