What to Do When Your Well Runs Dry: Solutions for Acreage Owners in Parkland County

For acreage owners in Parkland County, a reliable water source is essential to your lifestyle. When something goes wrong with your well—whether it’s a drop in water pressure, a complete loss of water, or contamination—it can feel like a major crisis. Fortunately, there are options to restore your water supply quickly and effectively. In this blog, we’ll explore solutions tailored for acreage owners, from quick fixes to long-term repairs, highlighting important acreage services for those in rural areas like Parkland County.

First Things to Check: Is It Just the Pump?

When you lose access to water, the first thing to investigate is whether the problem lies with your well pump. In many cases, the pump may simply need repair or replacement, which is far more affordable than drilling a new well. Replacing the pump is a common fix and can save you thousands of dollars, making it the first step you should take when troubleshooting well issues.

However, if your well has an older steel casing, replacing the pump can be more challenging. Steel casings can corrode over time, making it difficult to remove and install new pumps. In these cases, it’s best to consult a professional well technician who can help you decide whether repairing the well is the best option or if a new well is needed.

Temporary Solutions: Water Delivery and Tank Setup

If pump repairs or well maintenance will take time, a temporary solution is to arrange for a water tank to be delivered to your property. These tanks hold thousands of liters of water and can be connected directly to your home’s water system.

Here’s how it works: The tank is placed near your home and connected to your house through the garden hose outlet (also called a spigot or outdoor tap). An external pump pressurizes the water and feeds it into your existing plumbing system, allowing you to use water for drinking, cooking, showering, and other daily needs.

This temporary setup is especially useful if you're waiting for more extensive repairs on your well. Depending on your household size and water usage, the tank can last for several weeks. You can also schedule regular water deliveries to keep your home running smoothly until the well is fixed.

Storing the Water Tank: Garage or Outdoor Options

When using a water tank, it's important to store it safely. Ideally, tanks should be stored in your garage to protect them from freezing temperatures and ensure easy access for refilling or maintenance.

If garage space isn’t available, tanks can be stored outdoors with proper winter protection. In Parkland County, where winter temperatures can drop significantly, using heat trace cables around the pump and key areas of the tank is essential. This system prevents water from freezing, ensuring continuous water flow even in sub-zero conditions. You can further insulate the tank and cover it with a weatherproof tarp or enclosure for added protection.

Assessing the Well Problem

Once you’ve checked your pump and explored temporary solutions, it’s important to have a professional inspect your well. Common issues include:

Pump failure: If your pump has stopped working, it may need to be replaced, especially if it’s older.

Low water levels: Sometimes the water table drops, and deepening the well or lowering the pump may be necessary.

Casing damage: If the well casing is damaged, it may allow debris or contaminants into your water supply, requiring repairs or well rehabilitation.

By having a thorough inspection done, you can determine whether repairs are possible or if a new well is needed.

Financing Well Repairs

Well repairs and replacements can be expensive, but there are financing options available to help spread out the cost. Many well service companies offer financing plans, allowing you to repair or replace your well without the burden of upfront costs. In Parkland County, several contractors understand the unique needs of acreage owners and offer solutions tailored to rural areas.

Be sure to ask your contractor about low-interest loans or installment plans to ease the financial strain while getting your water system back up and running.

Preventative Measures for Future Issues

Once your well is up and running again, it’s a good idea to take steps to prevent future problems. Regular well maintenance, such as water testing and pump inspections, can help catch issues early before they become major repairs. In Parkland County, staying proactive is key, especially in areas with fluctuating water tables and older infrastructure.

Monitoring water usage, particularly during dry seasons, can also help prolong the life of your well. And when planning any future acreage development services, be mindful of where your well is located to avoid accidental damage during construction or landscaping projects.

Conclusion

Losing access to your well can be a stressful experience, but by exploring your options, you can ensure a steady water supply while you work on repairs. Always check your pump first, as replacing it is often a far more affordable and less invasive solution than drilling a new well. If older steel casings are involved, pump replacement might be more complex, requiring professional assistance.

With the right solutions—like temporary water delivery, well assessments, and financing options—you can manage the situation effectively. And whether you’re storing a temporary water tank in your garage or outdoors with heat trace protection, you can maintain access to water even during the colder months in Parkland County. Don’t wait too long to address well problems—early action can prevent further complications and ensure your acreage continues to thrive.