Surge Cleaning a Groundwater Well: What It Is and Why It Matters

If you rely on a private well for your water supply, keeping it clean and functioning properly is essential for both health and performance. Over time, wells can accumulate silt, biofilm, and mineral scale, all of which can reduce water quality and yield. One effective way to restore a well’s performance is surge cleaning—a tried-and-true method that’s often overlooked.

In this post, we’ll break down what surge cleaning is, why it’s necessary, and what to expect if you’re considering it for your groundwater well.

🌀 What Is Surge Cleaning?

Surge cleaning is a well rehabilitation process that involves vigorously agitating the water inside the well to loosen and remove sediment, bacterial slime, and other debris from the well screen and surrounding formation. It’s essentially a deep, mechanical cleaning for your well.

This method typically uses a surge block or plunger—a device lowered into the well and moved up and down repeatedly. This motion creates alternating pressure and suction, dislodging materials that have built up over time and allowing them to be pumped out.

💧 Why Do Wells Need Surge Cleaning?

Even the best-constructed wells will accumulate debris over the years. Here are a few common culprits:

• Sand and silt infiltration

• Iron bacteria and biofilm growth

• Mineral scaling (especially in hard water areas)

• Algae or organic matter accumulation

These issues can clog the well screen or gravel pack, reducing the efficiency of water flow into the well. That means your pump works harder, your water pressure drops, and your water quality may suffer.

Surge cleaning can:

• Restore lost water yield

• Improve water clarity and taste

• Prolong the life of your pump and other well components

• Reduce the need for chemical treatment

🛠️ The Surge Cleaning Process

Here’s a simplified step-by-step outline of how surge cleaning is performed:

1. Initial Inspection

   
   

   A well contractor inspects the well using a downhole camera or logs to assess buildup, condition, and depth.

2. Equipment Setup

   
   

   A surge block or plunger (often made of rubber or a similar flexible material) is attached to a rod or cable and lowered into the well.

3. Add The Correct Chemical Cleaner

If using a cleaning compound like BoreSaver Ultra C, now is the time to add it.

4. Surging Begins

   
   

   The surge block is moved up and down to force water through the well screen. This motion loosens buildup on the screen and surrounding gravel pack.

5. Pumping and Removal

   
   

   As debris is dislodged, it is pumped or bailed out of the well to prevent it from settling back in.

6. Repeat As Needed

   
   

   The process may be repeated several times until water clarity improves and no further debris is observed.

7. Post-Cleaning Testing

   
   

   Once cleaning is complete, the well is tested for flow rate, clarity, and sometimes water quality to ensure the procedure was effective.

🧪 When Should You Consider Surge Cleaning?

Consider surge cleaning if you notice:

• A significant drop in water pressure or flow

• Increased sediment in your water

• A change in taste, odor, or clarity

• Higher energy bills (from your pump working overtime)

• Testing reveals high bacteria or iron content

Experts generally recommend well cleaning every 5–10 years, or sooner if you’re having issues.

⚠️ DIY or Professional?

While some minor well maintenance can be DIY, surge cleaning is best left to licensed well professionals. It requires specialized equipment, a solid understanding of well construction, and careful handling to avoid damage or contamination.

🧼 Final Thoughts

Surge cleaning is one of the most effective and environmentally friendly ways to revitalize a struggling groundwater well. It restores flow, improves quality, and helps extend the life of your water system—all without harsh chemicals or invasive methods.

If your well hasn’t had a check-up in a while, or if you’re experiencing issues with water quality or pressure, it might be time to give it a proper cleaning. Your water—and your wallet—will thank you.

Want help finding a qualified well contractor or have questions about surge cleaning? Drop them in the comments below—we’re happy to help!