If you’re lucky enough to have a swimming pool at home, you know that filling it is one of the biggest initial tasks—and one of the most expensive if you’re relying on city water. For homeowners with a private well, it’s tempting to think, “Why not just use the well water?” While it can be a cost-saving solution, filling a pool with well water comes with its own set of considerations and challenges.
Can You Fill Your Pool with Well Water?
The short answer is: Yes, you can fill your pool with well water. However, it’s not as straightforward as just running a hose into the deep end. There are crucial factors to weigh before you start the process to avoid potential damage to your well system, plumbing, and the pool itself.
Key Considerations Before You Start
1. Well Capacity and Recovery Rate
Wells have a finite capacity and a recovery rate—the speed at which groundwater replenishes the well. Filling a large pool too quickly can deplete your well, leading to low water pressure, pump damage, or even dry wells.
Tip:
Work with a well professional to determine your well’s recovery rate. You might need to fill the pool slowly, over several days, to avoid overtaxing the system.
2. Water Quality
Well water often contains minerals like iron, manganese, or calcium, as well as potential contaminants like bacteria. These impurities can cause cloudy water, staining, or scaling on your pool surfaces.
Tip:
Test your well water before filling the pool. Based on the results, you may need pre-treatment, filtration, or adjustments to your pool’s chemical balance after filling.
3. Pool Chemical Balancing
Even “clean” well water isn’t ready for swimming until it’s chemically balanced. pH, alkalinity, hardness, and sanitizer levels will likely need serious adjustments after the initial fill.
Tip:
Have a water testing kit handy—or better yet, bring a water sample to a pool supply store for a professional analysis and recommendations.
4. Pump and Equipment Stress
Running your well pump continuously for hours to fill a pool can lead to overheating and wear, potentially shortening the life of your pump.
Tip:
Fill the pool in stages, allowing the pump to rest periodically. This protects your equipment and keeps the fill process safe.
Steps to Fill Your Pool with Well Water Safely
- Test your well water for minerals and contaminants.
- Plan a slow, staged fill to protect your well and pump.
- Use a filter or hose-end water treatment if needed to remove sediments and metals.
- Balance the water chemistry immediately after filling.
- Monitor your well during and after the fill to ensure recovery.
Alternatives to Direct Well Filling
- Water Delivery Services: Some companies will truck in clean, pre-treated water for your pool. It’s faster and safer for your well but comes at a higher cost.
- Hybrid Approach: Partially fill with well water and top off with trucked-in water to save money and protect your system.
Final Thoughts
Filling a pool with well water is absolutely doable for homeowners, but it requires careful planning and monitoring. With the right precautions, you can save money without damaging your well or ending up with a pool full of stained or unsafe water. Always prioritize testing and balance to keep your pool sparkling—and your well running strong.
