The short answer
How Floodwater Enters a Well
Floodwater can seep into a well through the casing, the well cap, or the surrounding soil. If the well is shallow or the seal is damaged, surface water can carry contaminants directly into the aquifer. Even a well that appears intact can be at risk during heavy flooding.
Contaminants include bacteria like E. Coli, viruses, parasites, and chemicals from agricultural runoff or fuel spills. If the floodwater backs up around the wellhead, the risk increases. The pressure of standing water can force pollutants into tiny cracks or gaps in the well system.
Signs Your Water May Be Contaminated
You cannot always see or smell contamination. Some signs include a change in color, odor, or taste, but many harmful contaminants are invisible. If your well was submerged or the area around it was flooded, assume contamination is possible.
If anyone in your home experiences stomach illness, nausea, or diarrhea after using the water, see a doctor if symptoms persist. Do not use the water for drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth until it is tested and treated.
- Water appears muddy or cloudy
- Unusual smell like sulfur or sewage
- Metallic or chemical taste
- Stomach upset after drinking
- Floodwater covered the wellhead
- Pressure tank or pipes were submerged
Testing Your Well Water
After a flood, have your well water tested by a local health department or a water quality laboratory. Testing should include coliform bacteria, E. Coli, nitrates, and chemical contaminants. Do not rely on home test kits, as they may not catch all pollutants.
Collect samples carefully following the lab's instructions. Usually, you let the water run for a few minutes first. If the test shows contamination, you will need to disinfect the well and retest before using the water again.
Steps to Take After a Flood
Avoid using the water for any household purpose until you know it is safe. If you must use it for flushing toilets, that is generally acceptable, but do not consume it. Turn off the power to the well pump if the electrical system got wet.
Inspect the well cap and casing for damage. If you see cracks or gaps, a plumber or well driller can repair them. In the meantime, use bottled water or water from a known safe source for drinking and cooking.
- Do not drink or cook with well water
- Turn off power to the pump if flooded
- Inspect the well cap and casing
- Have the water professionally tested
- Disinfect the well after repairs
- Retest before resuming normal use
When to Call a Professional
If you live in Euless, keep the phone number of a local well driller or plumber handy. They can inspect the well, repair damage, and perform shock chlorination. Water damage pros can also help if your crawlspace or lower level flooded, but for the well itself, a specialist is needed.
After the well is disinfected and retested, you can return to using the water. If contamination persists, you may need a new well or a water treatment system. Always follow the advice of the laboratory and your local health department.
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Phones are answered 24/7 for Euless and nearby communities.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
How long does well water stay contaminated after a flood?
It depends on the source and amount of contamination, the depth of the well, and local soil conditions. Some wells recover in days after disinfection, while others may need repeated treatments. Testing is the only way to know when it is safe.
Can boiling well water make it safe after a flood?
Boiling kills bacteria and viruses, but it does not remove chemicals, heavy metals, or sediment. Boiled water may still be unsafe for drinking if chemical contamination is present. Use bottled water until testing confirms the well is safe.
Should I use bleach to disinfect my well?
You can use unscented household bleach for shock chlorination, but only after the well has been inspected and repaired. The correct amount depends on the well's depth and water volume. Follow instructions from your local health department or a well professional.