Well Maintenance Schedule Template: Downloadable Checklist
A regular maintenance schedule is the key to a long-lasting, trouble-free well system. Use this free printable template to track your maintenance tasks and catch problems before they become expensive emergencies.
Print this page (Ctrl+P or Cmd+P) to get a ready-to-use maintenance log. The print version removes website navigation so you get just the checklist.
🔧 WELL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE LOG — 2026
📋 MONTHLY TASKS (5-10 minutes)
| Task | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check for leaks around pressure tank & piping | ||||||||||||
| Note pressure gauge reading (should be 40-60 PSI) | ||||||||||||
| Listen to pump operation (any unusual sounds?) | ||||||||||||
| Check water quality (color, smell, taste) | ||||||||||||
| Inspect wellhead for damage or pest entry |
📋 QUARTERLY TASKS (30-45 minutes)
| Task | Q1 (Jan-Mar) | Q2 (Apr-Jun) | Q3 (Jul-Sep) | Q4 (Oct-Dec) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check pressure tank air charge (turn off pump, drain some water, check with tire gauge) | ||||
| Inspect/replace sediment filter cartridge | ||||
| Check water softener salt level (if equipped) | ||||
| Visual check of control box and wiring | ||||
| Clear vegetation 10 ft from wellhead |
📋 ANNUAL TASKS (Professional recommended)
| Task | Date Completed | Performed By | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional well inspection (flow rate, pressure, electrical) | |||
| Water quality test (bacteria, nitrates, pH, hardness) | |||
| Check/adjust pressure switch settings | |||
| Replace UV bulb (if equipped) | |||
| Water heater anode rod inspection | |||
| Clean water softener brine tank (if equipped) |
📋 SEASONAL REMINDERS
| Season | Tasks | Done |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-Apr) | Check outdoor faucets • Test irrigation connections • Fire season prep (clear 30 ft) | |
| Summer (Jun-Jul) | Check for pump cycling issues under high demand • Monitor water level if drought | |
| Fall (Oct-Nov) | Insulate exposed pipes • Disconnect garden hoses • Check heat tape (if applicable) | |
| Winter (Dec-Jan) | Protect from freeze • Check pressure tank for condensation • Annual inspection |
📋 MAINTENANCE LOG
| Date | Work Performed / Issue Found | Cost |
|---|---|---|
📋 WATER TEST RESULTS TRACKING
| Date | Bacteria | Nitrates | pH | Hardness | Iron | TDS | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
⚠️ CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY IF:
- ☐ Pump runs continuously without shutting off
- ☐ No water or very low pressure
- ☐ Pump cycles rapidly (more than once per minute)
- ☐ Burning smell or unusual sounds
- ☐ Sudden change in water quality, color, or taste
- ☐ Visible leaks
Southern California Well Service | (760) 440-8520 | scwellservice.com
Serving San Diego, Riverside & San Bernardino Counties
How to Use This Template
Getting Started
- Print this page — Use Ctrl+P (Windows) or Cmd+P (Mac)
- Fill in your system details — Record well depth, pump type, and pressure settings
- Post it near your well equipment — Easy access for monthly checks
- Check off tasks as you complete them — Build the maintenance habit
- Keep a backup copy — Scan or photograph completed logs for your records
Understanding Your Pressure Settings
Your pressure switch has two settings:
- Cut-in pressure: The PSI where the pump turns ON (typically 30-40 PSI)
- Cut-out pressure: The PSI where the pump turns OFF (typically 50-60 PSI)
- Tank air charge: Should be 2 PSI BELOW your cut-in pressure
Common settings: 30/50 PSI (tank air = 28 PSI) or 40/60 PSI (tank air = 38 PSI)
Why Quarterly Tank Checks Matter
The pressure tank air charge is the most commonly overlooked maintenance item. When the air charge is low:
- The pump cycles on and off rapidly (short cycling)
- Short cycling burns out pump motors prematurely
- A $10 check can prevent a $2,000 pump replacement
We service all major pump brands including Franklin Electric, Grundfos, Goulds (Xylem), and Sta-Rite (Pentair). Our trucks carry common parts and components for same-day repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a well be maintained?
Well maintenance should include monthly visual inspections (5-10 minutes), quarterly pressure tank checks (30 minutes), and annual professional inspections with water testing ($250-500). This schedule prevents most problems and catches issues before they become expensive emergencies. Filters should be changed based on pressure drop or appearance—usually every 1-6 months depending on your water quality.
What maintenance does a private well need?
Private wells need regular leak checks, pressure tank air charge verification, filter replacements, water quality testing, and annual professional inspections. Monthly tasks include visual inspection and pressure check. Quarterly tasks include pressure tank maintenance and filter inspection. Annual tasks include professional pump testing, comprehensive water testing, and full system evaluation. The time investment is minimal compared to the cost of emergency repairs.
What happens if you don't maintain your well?
Neglecting well maintenance leads to shorter pump life (8-10 years vs. 15-25 years with maintenance), higher repair costs, water quality problems, and potential health hazards. A clogged filter can burn out a $2,000 pump. Bacterial growth from neglected systems can make your family sick. An undetected small leak can cause major water damage. Catching small problems early costs $100-300; fixing major failures costs $2,000-5,000 or more.
Can I do well maintenance myself?
Yes, most routine maintenance can be done yourself: visual inspections, pressure gauge readings, filter changes, and pressure tank air checks. However, electrical work, pump pulling, and major repairs should be done by licensed professionals. This schedule focuses on what homeowners can safely do themselves, while recommending professional service for annual inspections and any repairs beyond basic maintenance.
Schedule Your Annual Inspection
Professional inspections catch problems you can't see. We test pump performance, check electrical systems, and evaluate overall system health.
Call (760) 440-8520Annual inspections from $150 | San Diego, Riverside & San Bernardino Counties
Related: Detailed Maintenance Guide | Maintenance Services | Water Testing
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