Winter is fast approaching, and now is the time to make sure your well system is protected from below-freezing temperatures. Not only can frozen well pumps and water pipes disrupt your water supply, but they can also cause serious damage to your system – leading to costly repairs and cleanup.
Let’s take a closer look at how to prevent well water from freezing this winter and what to do if a freeze in your well system does happen.
Winterizing Your Well System
As a homeowner in the Northeast, you may be wondering, “how do I keep my well water from freezing?” First, it’s important to note that, in our part of the world, frost doesn’t penetrate very deep into the ground. This means that soil temperatures at well-depth stay above freezing all winter long. Therefore, it’s not the well water you need to worry about, but rather the water that travels through the pipes and, potentially, the pump driving it.
The Pump
Submersible well water pumps located at the bottom of wells aren’t susceptible to freezing. However, if you have an aboveground jet pump, it could be at risk if it’s not situated in a heated part of your property, or during especially cold temperatures. Whatever area your home’s well water tank is in should be kept free from drafts, open basement windows, poorly sealed Bilco doors, and doors left open accidentally and so forth. This will prevent the need to insulate a cold-water storage tank which Greco & Haines recommends against.
The Pipes
Any pipes that are above ground should be insulated. Foam sleeves are a common solution to prevent freezing, but you can also use a thermal blanket or even old sweatshirts that are double wrapped. It can also be beneficial to use heat tape – just be sure to space it out about an inch or so along the pipe. Always be about caution as regards using any type of heat lamp as to not cause a fire! Because of this Greco & Haines recommends against heat lamps in and near any pipes of the well tank in your home.
Additional Freeze Protection: Dripping Your Faucets
In subfreezing weather, it’s a good idea to further protect your water lines by letting your faucets drip. Flowing water doesn’t freeze easily, and even just a tiny trickle should provide sufficient protection. While some people do this whenever temperatures drop below freezing, it’s typically recommended when nightly lows are forecasted at 20 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
Dealing with a Frozen Pump or Pipes
Unfortunately, despite your best efforts, your well pump and water pipes may freeze. If this happens, the first thing you should do is open a faucet to relieve any built-up pressure on the lines. This also allows you to pinpoint the problem spot. Once you’ve found the frozen area, use a hairdryer or heat tape to thaw it out. When water begins flowing out of the tap, you can remove the heat source.
If this doesn’t do the trick, it’s time to call in the professionals at Greco & Haines. Even if you manage to thaw out a frozen pipe or pump, you should hire an experienced technician to check for leaks in the system as well as any malfunctioning components. Ice can crack pipes and lead to leakage that may be catastrophic. A freeze in your system can also damage your well pump – a major problem that needs to be addressed immediately.
Greco & Haines: Your Source for Well Emergencies
If you’re unable to thaw out a frozen spot in your system, or if you suspect leakage, pump failure, or other freeze-related damage, get in touch with Greco & Haines. We’re available seven days a week to help you solve all of your well issues. Whether it’s a frozen well pump or ice-jammed pipes, we’ll make sure to get things back in working order.
A post-freeze well problem may be obvious. For example, you’ll likely notice a major leak early on. However, in some cases, related issues may be hard to identify. Therefore, if you detect any changes in your water quality, pressure, or the cycling of your pump, reach out to Greco & Haines immediately. Our expert team can pinpoint and remedy even the most inconspicuous issues. Contact us with any other concerns, such as water leaking into your well.
Pre-Winter Well Inspections & Maintenance
In addition to preparing your well system for winter weather, it’s also a good idea to conduct a thorough well inspection and carry out any necessary maintenance before the ground freezes and snow begins to pile up. Therefore, you should plan your annual well check-up for the fall. That way, you can jump on any issues that may be exacerbated by winter conditions.
If you need a team of professionals to inspect and tune-up your well system, look to Greco & Haines. As your go-to CT well water company, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain your equipment so that you can have access to safe, clean water all year long.
Winter Well Maintenance & Repair from Greco & Haines
Turn to Greco & Haines for pre-winter inspections and maintenance, winterization tips, and well system repairs. With over 55 years of experience in the industry, we provide customers all around Connecticut with top-of-the-line well installation, maintenance, water testing, and repairs. Plus, Greco & Haines offers service 365 days a year – with no extra charge for weekends and holidays! For more information about our well services in CT, contact us today via our online contact form or call any time at 203-735-9308, 203-777-2256, or from any CT area code at 1-800-922-2958.