Well Cleaning & Screen Changes

Well Cleaning & Screen Changes in Traverse City 

Serving Homeowners in Leelanau County & Northern Michigan

Over time, even the most reliable wells can experience a decline in performance due to mineral buildup, sediment accumulation, or biological growth. At Berg Well Drilling, our well cleaning and screen change services are designed to restore your system’s original flow and efficiency. We utilize our deep understanding of Michigan’s groundwater to provide specialized maintenance that clears away obstructions and keeps your well system in great working order. We prioritize cost-effective and thorough solutions that rejuvenate your well’s output and protect the quality of your system. 

Call (231) 587-7541 for well cleaning and screen changes in Traverse City.

Providing Water Wells to the Thirsty People of Haiti
As part of serving the Christ Community Church, we provide water wells to the people in Haiti. We have been taking trips to Haiti since the 1900s.
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Our Well Cleaning Process 

At Berg Well Drilling, we don’t just address the symptoms of low flow; we target the root cause of the blockage so your well returns to its peak production levels. Our well water service experts use a combination of mechanical and chemical techniques that have been refined over six generations of service to safely and effectively clean your water source.

Here is what you can expect from our well cleaning services:

  • Initial flow rate assessment - We begin by measuring your well’s current gallons per minute (GPM) to establish a baseline. This allows us to track the exact improvement in performance once the cleaning is complete.
  • Mechanical brushing and surging - We use specialized brushes to scrub the interior of the well casing and the surface of the screen. This mechanical agitation breaks up hardened mineral scale, such as calcium or iron deposits, that has accumulated over years of use.
  • Professional chemical restoration - When necessary, we apply targeted, NSF-approved treatments to dissolve deep-seated mineral encrustations and biological films. This process reaches beyond the screen into the surrounding gravel pack to clear the pathways for water to enter the well.
  • Debris removal and bailing - Once the obstructions are loosened, we utilize high-powered bailing or pumping equipment to remove the dislodged sediment, scale, and cleaning agents from the bottom of the well, creating a clean environment for your pump.
  • High-velocity chlorination - After the physical cleaning, we perform a thorough chlorination of the entire system. This kills off iron-reducing bacteria and algae that can cause slime buildup, odors, premature wear, and pump repairs.
  • Final yield testing - We conclude the process with a final flow test to verify the increase in water volume. 

By the time we leave, your system is optimized for maximum efficiency, often restoring flow rates to like-new conditions.

  • Delivering Life’s Essential Resource
    Berg Well Drilling is dedicated to providing clean, reliable water to homes through properly functioning well systems you can depend on every day.
  • Professionalism You Can Count On
    Every job is approached with courtesy, respect, and a high level of professionalism, ensuring a smooth and positive experience from start to finish.
  • Proven Integrity Since 1920
    Built on a foundation of honesty and reliability, the company has operated for over a century with a steadfast commitment to doing the job right.
  • Comprehensive Well Solutions
    From drilling to pump installation and water purification, Berg Well Drilling offers complete, end-to-end services to ensure safe and dependable water systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the warning signs that my well needs immediate cleaning?

The most common indicators include a noticeable drop in household water pressure, sputtering or "spitting" faucets, cloudy or discolored water, and strange odors or tastes. You might also notice your well pump cycling on and off more frequently than usual. If your water bills or electric bills spike suddenly without an increase in usage, it could mean your pump is working twice as hard to draw water through a heavily clogged well screen.

Will professional well cleaning fix cloudy or muddy water?

Yes, in most cases. Cloudy or turbid water is usually caused by fine silt, clay, or sand entering the well, or by an accumulation of iron and manganese flakes. Over time, these sediments settle at the bottom of your well. Professional cleaning involves high-powered bailing or pumping that completely flushes these heavy particles out of the well bore, resetting the bottom of the well and allowing only clean, filtered groundwater to enter your home.

 

  • "They did an awesome job on my well."
    And they were very nice and polite. Very happy and recommending them to anyone I see!
    - Teresa L.
  • "The Berg people are awesome."
    They communicate well, they show up when they say, and are kind and professional on the job.
    - Randall R.
  • "Highly recommend!"
    Very respectful and attentive to doing the job well, pun intended.
    - Tom K.
  • "Highly recommend them everybody who needs help with their well."
    We were so grateful to these guys for all the hard work they did and getting us up and running.
    - Gary B.
  • "Best customer service around!"
    Came out on a drop of a dime to replace my pressure tank.
    - Sean J.
  • "I could not be more satisfied with the service I received."
    They arrived when they said they would and found the problem quickly.
    - David B.
  • "hank you Berg Well Drilling."
    Your entire crew was fantastic and yesterday I thought they really dug in to get finished.
    - Gloria M.
  • "Great communication and super fast!"
    They came out on a cold and snowy day when our pump had stopped working!
    - Terah V.

How Often Should My Well Be Cleaned?

To maintain peak performance and water quality, we generally recommend a professional well cleaning every 10 to 15 years, or sooner if you notice a significant drop in water pressure or changes in water clarity. Over time, mineral deposits and biological films naturally accumulate, which can restrict flow and force your pump to work harder, leading to well repairs and pump malfunctions. 

By staying ahead of this buildup with routine maintenance from Berg Well Drilling, you can prevent costly mechanical failures and help your system continue to deliver a high-yielding, clean water supply for your household.

Will heavy rain or local flooding mean I need to clean my well?

If floodwaters physically submerge the top of your wellhead, surface runoff carrying bacteria, agricultural chemicals, pesticides, and mud can bypass your well cap and directly contaminate your drinking supply. After any local flooding event where the wellhead was compromised, the well should be completely shut down, professionally inspected for structural damage, thoroughly cleaned of mud and debris, and heavily sanitized before being put back into active use.

How often should my well screen be changed?

Your well’s screen changing schedule largely depends on local geology and water chemistry, but most systems benefit from an evaluation every 10 to 15 years. Over time, screens can become encrusted with minerals (like calcium or iron), or they may become clogged by fine sand and sediment, which significantly restricts your water flow and puts undue stress on your pump. If you notice a gradual decrease in water pressure or an increase in sediment in your lines, it may be time for a professional change-out. Our team utilizes high-quality stainless-steel wire-wound screens, which are known for their durability and longevity. 

What Causes a Well Screen to Become Clogged?

Mineral deposits, iron bacteria, sediment, sand, and other naturally occurring materials can accumulate on or around a well screen over time. This buildup can restrict the amount of groundwater entering the well, reducing production and potentially causing your pump to work harder.

Can Well Cleaning Improve Water Pressure?

Well cleaning may improve water pressure when restricted flow is caused by sediment, mineral buildup, or biological growth in the well or screen. However, low pressure can have other causes, including problems with the pump or pressure tank, so a professional evaluation can help determine the source.

Can a Clogged Well Screen Cause Pump Problems?

Yes. A restricted well screen can limit the amount of water available to the pump. This may cause the pump to operate inefficiently or cycle more frequently, potentially contributing to premature wear. Cleaning the well or replacing a severely restricted screen may help restore proper water flow.

What Is the Difference Between Well Cleaning and a Screen Change?

Well cleaning removes accumulated sediment, mineral deposits, and biological growth from the well and its components. A screen change involves removing and replacing the existing well screen when it is damaged, excessively clogged, or no longer functioning effectively. The appropriate service depends on the condition of the well.

Can Well Cleaning Remove Iron Bacteria?

Professional well cleaning and sanitization can help address iron bacteria and the buildup associated with it. Iron bacteria can create slime, odors, and deposits that restrict well components. Treatment may include mechanical cleaning and appropriate disinfection based on the condition of the well.

Why Is Sediment Getting Into My Well Water?

Sediment in household water can come from several sources, including a deteriorating or clogged well screen, changes in groundwater conditions, excessive pumping, or problems with the well structure. If sediment persists or suddenly increases, a professional inspection can help determine its source.

Can an Old Well Be Restored Instead of Replaced?

In some cases, an older well can be restored through professional cleaning, screen changes, or other repairs rather than being replaced entirely. The feasibility of restoration depends on the well's construction, condition, water production, and the cause of its declining performance.

Does Well Cleaning Help Extend the Life of a Well?

Regular maintenance can help reduce the effects of sediment, mineral buildup, and biological growth that may interfere with well performance. Addressing these issues before they become severe can help protect the well's components and maintain reliable water production.

How Can I Tell If My Well Screen Is Damaged?

A damaged or deteriorating screen may contribute to declining water production, increased sediment or sand in the water, or changes in well performance. Because these symptoms can have several causes, professional testing and inspection are often needed to determine whether the screen requires cleaning or replacement.

Is Well Cleaning Necessary After Well Repairs?

It may be appropriate to clean or sanitize a well after certain repairs, particularly when work has introduced debris into the well or when the repair addresses an underlying water-quality concern. Berg Well Drilling can evaluate the system and determine whether cleaning or disinfection is recommended following service.

Call (231) 587-7541 or contact us online for well cleaning and screen changing services in Traverse City.

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