1 in 5 Private Wells Contaminated in Jamestown, NY

Homeowners risk thousands in preventable repairs without proper well maintenance, McCandless Well Drilling reports

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

According to a report from McCandless Well Drilling and Services, Inc., a well drilling contractor in Jamestown, NY, over 43 million Americans rely on private wells as their sole drinking water source, and the CDC estimates that 1 in 5 of these private wells contain at least one health-affecting contaminant. Homeowners in Jamestown and Chautauqua County who depend on private wells face significant financial risk by neglecting routine maintenance, with well pump replacements costing $400-$2,500 and drilling a new well running $3,750-$15,300. The company urges well owners to invest $150-$900 annually in preventive upkeep to protect water quality, extend equipment life, and avoid emergency repairs.

Why it matters

With many rural properties in Chautauqua County relying on private wells as their sole drinking water source, the responsibility for maintaining water quality and avoiding costly repairs falls entirely on homeowners. This report highlights the significant financial risks that well owners face if they neglect routine maintenance, underscoring the importance of proactive well care to protect public health and household budgets.

The details

According to the report, the CDC estimates that approximately 1 in 5 private wells contain at least one health-affecting contaminant, while the U.S. Geological Survey reports over 43 million Americans rely on unregulated private wells. In the Jamestown area, common well issues include hard water, iron, sulfur, and bacterial contamination, which can be effectively managed through proper testing, filtration, and UV treatment when caught early. However, the report states that "most well owners don't think about their water system until something goes wrong--and by then, a $300 annual inspection has turned into a $5,000 pump replacement or worse." The financial consequences can be substantial, with well pump replacements costing $400-$2,500 and drilling a new well running $3,750-$15,300, compared to just $150-$900 per year for preventive maintenance.

  • The CDC estimates that approximately 1 in 5 private wells contain at least one health-affecting contaminant.
  • The U.S. Geological Survey reports over 43 million Americans rely on unregulated private wells as their sole drinking water source.

The players

McCandless Well Drilling and Services, Inc.

A full-service well drilling contractor and water treatment supplier based in Jamestown, NY, serving Chautauqua County for nearly 50 years.

CDC

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a leading national public health institute in the United States.

U.S. Geological Survey

A scientific agency of the United States government that studies the landscape, natural resources, and natural hazards of the United States.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Most well owners don't think about their water system until something goes wrong—and by then, a $300 annual inspection has turned into a $5,000 pump replacement or worse.”

— [Owner/Spokesperson Name], of McCandless Well Drilling and Services, Inc. (abnewswire.com)

What’s next

The complete study and well maintenance resources are available at https://mccandlesswelldrilling.com/chautauqua-county/jamestown-ny/

The takeaway

This report underscores the critical importance of proactive well maintenance for homeowners in Jamestown and Chautauqua County who rely on private wells. By investing a relatively small amount annually in preventive care, well owners can avoid thousands of dollars in costly repairs and ensure the safety and quality of their drinking water.