Knowing the Difference Between Well Water and City Water

When it comes to purchasing a home, one thing that many potential homeowners take into consideration is their water source. When looking at homes, the water source is a topic that comes up if the home either has a water well or city water.

Many people have never lived in an area with water wells as their main water source, so they may be conflicted when it comes time to purchase a home with a water well. A question that often comes up in that case, is if well water or city water is actually better?

Where Does Well Water Come From?

Well water is drawn up from aquifers deep below the ground. Generally, there are layers of dirt and rock covering the underground water, so water wells are dug deep in order to access clean, fresh water. That water is then drawn up through pipes and distributed through the plumbing system of your home.

The process of obtaining city water is slightly different. Rather than drawing water up through the ground, city water is pulled from rivers and streams. In Michigan, the primary source of city water is from the Detroit River, where it is then treated and stored before being pulled through the plumbing for your home or business as needed.

Major Differences Between Well Water and City Water

The source of the water for your home isn’t the only difference between well water and city water. There are a few other key elements to take into consideration when choosing which water source fits your family’s needs.

Well Water has no added chemicals. Many people are confident in their water wells because only the natural elements are found in it. There are no added chemicals. City water is often treated and contains chemicals to kill bacteria. In some cases, toxic metal salts, hormones, pesticides, and lead have been found in tap water.
Well water has naturally occurring nutrients. Calcium, magnesium, and sodium are found in well water naturally. These vitamins and minerals are naturally found in this water and are important for maintaining a healthy and balanced body.
City Water is government controlled. Since city water is government controlled, it means that they take care of all the maintenance to ensure that you have safe drinking water. Water Wells are the responsibility of the homeowner to maintain and regularly check the water. Maintaining your own water well can be beneficial because then you are certain that your water is clean and safe.
There is a difference in price for well water and city water. Since city water is controlled by the government, there is a monthly water fee for the water that you use. These fees can add up. Well water has no monthly fees, but the initial set up of a new water well will cost you some money out of pocket. The cost of this setup generally ends up being less than the cost of city water over time.

Choosing a Home With Well Water

Choosing a home with a water well doesn’t have to be an overwhelming experience. Choosing a great contractor to help you manage your water well makes the process even easier. Give us a call today to schedule a time for us to help you maintain your water well! We can be reached at (586) 784-9516.

We provide Water Well Drilling Services in the following Michigan Counties: