WARNINGS!
- If the pump or control box went underwater, do not turn on the pump.
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If you suspect contamination, do not pump contaminated well water into the house.
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Do not use the well water for drinking or personal washing until you are satisfied that the water is not contaminated.
Better safe than sorry
After a flood, you’ll be eager to use your normal water supply – your private well. But when floodwater covers your well or neighboring wells, there’s a possibility the water in your well will become contaminated. The effects of contaminated water can be serious, so it is important to make sure the water is safe before you use it for personal hygiene or drinking.
Checking for flood damage
Inspect the well for physical damage or signs of leakage. The force of flowing water and waterborne debris can damage a well, which increases the chance of polluted water entering the well. If you see damage, consult a licensed water well contractor to find out if repairs are needed.
Inspect the pump and control box (with the electricity turned off)
Floodwater can damage the pump and electrical system and pollute the well. The chance of pump damage and personal injury are greater if you attempt to use the well before the pump and electrical system have been cleaned and dried. If a well pump or control box flooded, clean and dry these components before using them. For more information, see LSU AgCenter publication “Restoring Your Water Well Pump and Electrical System."
See if the well water runs clean
If the well’s electrical and mechanical systems are undamaged or have been restored, pump well water through the outlet nearest the pump to see if it is cloudy. If it is, keep pumping until the water runs clear. If the water will not run clear after several hours, call a professional licensed water well contractor.
Decide whether to disinfect or test for contamination
If the water has run clear since the flood and if the well was constructed in accordance with Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) regulations and was not physically damaged by the flood, further action may not be needed. If the water ran cloudy after the flood, the well should be disinfected and tested. Even when you see no signs of contamination, there is a possibility undetected damage has allowed contaminants to enter or that your water supply has been contaminated by flooding of a neighboring well. These contaminants may not affect how the water looks. Some people choose to disinfect their well for bacterial contamination – just to be safe. Testing is a way to confirm that the disinfection process has been successful. Others choose to test, then disinfect if necessary. The most immediate health risk from a contaminated well is from bacterial contamination. A good dose of chlorine bleach can eliminate bacterial contaminants, but it does not reduce the risk of chemical contaminants.
Get professional help
Wells that are damaged or continue to deliver muddy water after several hours of pumping should be cleaned out by a licensed water well contractor. The contractor can determine if other repairs are necessary. Wells that are no longer needed or have been determined to be damaged beyond repair should be closed by a licensed water well contractor in accordance with DOTD regulations.
Additional Procedures - Emergency Procedures for Disinfecting a Flooded Well
Additional Resources - these links take you away from the LSU AgCenter: