During long power outages, having a backup plan for water access can make a stressful situation much more manageable. Since most private wells rely on electricity to operate, losing power often means losing running water too.
Some homeowners choose to install:
🔋 Backup generators
🚰 Water storage tanks
🖐️ Manual hand pumps designed for wells
☀️ Solar backup systems
A properly installed hand pump may allow homeowners to access groundwater even when electricity is unavailable. Hand pumps can be especially valuable in rural areas where storm recovery and power restoration may take longer after severe weather.
Backup generators can also help keep well systems operating during outages, but proper sizing and installation are important. Not all generators are designed to handle the startup demands of well pumps and pressure systems.
If you are considering a hand pump, generator, or backup water system, contact a licensed well contractor to help determine the proper sizing, compatibility, and installation for your specific well system and household needs.
Keep Emergency Supplies Together
Before a storm arrives, having a few basic supplies ready can make emergencies feel much more manageable. Keeping everything in one easy-to-find location can save valuable time and help your household stay more comfortable during power outages or severe weather.
Create a dedicated emergency area in your home with:
🔦 Flashlights and extra batteries
🔋 Portable chargers or battery packs
🩹 First aid supplies
🧻 Sanitation and hygiene items
📻 Battery-powered weather radio
⚠️ Unscented household bleach for emergency disinfection guidance
Protect Important Records
When severe weather hits, it’s easy for important paperwork and contact information to get overlooked. Taking a few minutes now to organize well records and emergency contacts can help make cleanup, repairs, and recovery much smoother later.
Keep copies of:
📄 Well construction records
🧪 Water testing reports
🔧 Pump and maintenance information
📞 Emergency contractor contacts
⚡ Generator instructions and other manuals
Tip: Store records in waterproof containers or backed up digitally if possible.
To help homeowners stay organized and prepared, wellcare® also offers the HELP: Homeowner Emergency Localized Plan. This printable resource includes space for emergency contacts, local resources, and planning information specific to your household. It also includes a quick-reference Emergency Kit Essentials infographic that can be kept on your refrigerator or stored with your emergency supplies for easy access during storms and outages.