My Private Well

Your well taps directly into a ground water source. Ground water is a shared resource we all rely on. Contamination from one well can lead to problems in many wells. A properly maintained well and water testing help protect the ground water that supplies your well water.

For your own health and safety and that of your neighbours, you should understand basic well maintenance and operation and take the steps necessary to keep your well safe and operating properly.

Keep contaminants away from the wellhead, including chemicals and petroleum products, fertilizers or pesticides and pet wastes.

Keep the wellhead free of debris and brush. Check the well cap regularly for damage and ensure the sanitary seal is secure and watertight. Maintain the well casing by checking for structural defects and use backflow prevention devices.

Get in the habit of water testing. Next to properly maintaining your well, testing is your best strategy for playing it safe. Test your well water at least three times a year for bacteria. Always test water after major plumbing work or after a flooding.

The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care has a series of fact sheets
on protecting wells and well water. You can also get these fact sheets by calling the ministry’s INFOline:

1-866-532-3161
(Toll-free in Ontario only)
TTY 1-800-387-5559
Hours of operation: 8:30am - 5:00pm