How to Switch From Well Water to City Water

If you're dealing with well system issues like frequently clogged drains or water so cloudy you can't see through it, you may be wondering how to switch from well water to city water. If your home is close to your city's water supply, making the switch is possible, but you'll definitely need the assistance of some local professionals.

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Can I Switch From Well to City Water?

In most cases, homeowners can switch from well to city water. However, multiple steps must be followed before the switch can take place. Per your city's specific regulations, you may need to obtain special permits to connect to the main water line and disconnect your existing well. If you need to install a new water line, your property may require excavation.

Switching from well to city water is fairly complex, and it's not a DIY project. You'll need to schedule meetings with several specialists, which may include plumbers, excavation companies and residential well services. It's also important to meet with your municipality or public works department.

How to Switch From Well to City Water

There are several steps you must take when switching from a well to city water.

• Verify your location. The first thing you'll need to do is contact your local water supplier and determine if your address is within the city's water service area. You'll also want to verify that the city's main water line is accessible from your location.

• Contact a professional plumber. Switching to city water requires installing a water meter and possibly a new water line (if your property doesn't already have one). A professional plumber can assess your existing water line and assist with the installation process.

• Obtain water permit. While specific regulations can vary based on your location, you'll most likely need to obtain a water permit to connect with your city's main water line.

• Installation and final inspection. Once your permits are in order, you can schedule the water line/water meter installations. If your property needs a new water line, your yard may require excavation so the plumbers can properly install the pipes and access the city's water main.

• Final inspection. Following the installation process, the city should perform a final inspection of your property and water line to ensure everything is in proper working order.

• Disconnecting your well. Disconnecting your well is the final step in switching from well water to city water. You'll need to disconnect the well water line from your home plumbing system and cap the line to prevent new water from entering the well. If you need assistance with this step, contact a professional plumber or a residential well services company.

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How Long Does It Take to Switch From Well Water to City Water?

The time it takes to switch from well water to city water can range from a day or two to several weeks or longer, depending on a variety of factors. For example, installing a new water line may take several days. If your home is already equipped with a water line, it might only take a few hours to connect to the city water supply.

Some additional aspects that may affect your overall timeline include disconnecting and capping your well and water testing once your new line is up and running. In most cases, the well disconnecting process only takes a few hours. If you send a water sample out for testing, it can take up to 5 days to receive your results.

Is It Cheaper to Have Well Water or City Water?

In the long run, well water is generally considered more affordable than city water. Well drilling and installation costs, along with equipment and maintenance expenses, can add up initially, but homeowners don't have to worry about monthly or quarterly water and/or septic bills. The average cost to set up a well in the United States typically ranges from $3,500 to $15,000.

City water comes with multiple monthly costs that include taxes and fees, and users are charged per gallon of water used. City water rates can fluctuate over time, which can also affect pricing. While specific costs can vary from city to city, the average cost for municipal water in the United States is around 3 cents per gallon.