How Does Well Water Work? Important Things to Know 

If you live in a rural or semi-rural area, your water might come from a private well rather than a municipal supply. Understanding water wells is essential for homeowners relying on this source. This well water guide explains how well water works, the basics of a well water system, and what you need to know to keep your water safe and reliable. 

In the Fraser Valley and across British Columbia, many homeowners rely on private wells. At EDS Pumps & Water Treatment, our Water Quality Specialists help businesses and residents understand how well water works and provide tailored solutions for every home’s unique water composition. 

What Is a Well Water System? 

A well water system is a private water source that taps into groundwater stored in underground layers called aquifers. These aquifers hold water that has naturally filtered through soil and rock. 

The main components of a well water system include: 

• Well casing and well cap: protect your water from contamination and debris. 
• Pump: either a submersible pump for deep wells or a jet pump for shallower wells, bringing water to your home.
• Pressure tank: regulates water pressure so that water flows steadily when you open a faucet.
• Distribution plumbing: delivers water throughout your home. 

Understanding water wells starts with knowing these basics and each part plays a critical role in keeping your water clean and accessible. For well water homeowners in BC, EDS Pumps & Water Treatment offers inspections and maintenance services to ensure your system is operating efficiently. 

How Well Water Works 

Here’s a step-by-step look at how well water works: 

• Water collects in aquifers. Rain and surface water seep into the ground, gathering in layers of rock, sand, or gravel. 
• A well is drilled. Th e casing is inserted and sealed with a cap to protect the water from surface contaminants.
• Water is pumped to the surface. The pump draws water up to a pressure tank inside your home.
• Water flows to taps and appliances. The pressure tank ensures consistent flow throughout your home. 

Well water systems give homeowners independence from municipal water, often at a lower long-term cost. However, they also require active management to maintain water quality. EDS Pumps & Water Treatment can help homeowners choose and maintain the right pumps and systems for their well water setup. 

Common Well Water Issues 

Even though groundwater is naturally filtered, it can still carry minerals and contaminants. Common issues include: 

• Hard water: high levels of calcium and magnesium can cause scale buildup, soap scum, and dry skin or hair. 
• Iron and sulfur: may stain fixtures or give water a metallic or “rotten egg” smell. 
• Sediment: sand or silt can enter pipes and appliances if the well screen isn’t maintained. 
• Contaminants: bacteria, nitrates, heavy metals, or chemicals, especially near farms, industrial sites, or older septic systems. 

Testing your well water regularly helps you catch these issues before they become costly problems. EDS Pumps & Water Treatment provides professional water testing and analysis to identify potential concerns and recommend effective solutions. 

Testing & Maintenance 

Unlike municipal water, well water isn’t automatically treated or monitored. Homeowners are responsible for maintaining the system and ensuring water quality. 

Testing recommendations: 

• Test at least once a year for bacteria, nitrates, minerals, and pH.  
• Test anytime you notice changes in taste, smell, or appearance, or after nearby construction or flooding. 
• Visit our lab testing site at 23184 Fraser Highway, Langley for water testing or call 604-534-1115 to learn more. 

Maintenance tips: 

• Inspect the well casing and cap for cracks or damage. 
• Check the pump and pressure tank for proper operation. 
• Consider backup solutions if a power outage could cut off water supply. 

Treatment Solutions 

Treatment depends on the results of your water tests. Common solutions include: 

Whole house filtration removes sediment, iron, sulfur, and other minerals from all water entering your home. 

Water softeners: reduce hardness caused by calcium and magnesium. 

Drinking water filters or reverse osmosis systems: improve taste, odor, and safety for water used for consumption. 

UV or chlorination systems: disinfect water if bacteria are present. 

A customized approach ensures your water is safe, clean, and enjoyable to use. At EDS Pumps & Water Treatment, our experts assess your well water and design tailored solutions that meet the needs of your household. 

What to Check Before Buying a Home with a Well 

If you’re considering a property with a well, these steps can save you trouble later: 

• Request well documentation: age, depth, pump type, and maintenance history. 
• Review recent water test results to check for hardness, minerals, or contaminants. 
• Understand seasonal water availability and any potential treatment needs. 
• Budget for maintenance, testing, and any treatment systems required. 

For added confidence, EDS Pumps & Water Treatment can perform a full water system inspection. Our team works closely with homeowners and real estate agents throughout BC, providing detailed assessments of the well, pump, pressure tank, and overall system. This ensures you know exactly what you’re buying and helps you plan for any maintenance or treatment solutions, giving you peace of mind and safe, reliable water year-round. 

Your Well Deserves the Right Treatment

Well water systems offer independence, reliability, and often cost savings, but they require active management. Understanding water wells, testing regularly, and installing the right treatment systems are essential to keeping your water safe and high quality. 

Whether you’re buying a home with a well or maintaining your current system, EDS Pumps & Water Treatment in Langley, BC, can help. Our team provides 24/7 support, professional water testing, pump installation, and customized treatment solutions, making it easy to enjoy safe, clean, and reliable well water in your home.