For archived tips, click here for all previous tips. Protecting Private Drinking Water Wells Private wells are a source of drinking water for more than 200,000 homes in Kentucky.
Some households also use cisterns as their source of drinking water.
Water quality in private wells and cisterns is not regulated by the state either. The protection and maintenance of a private well is largely the responsibility of the homeowner. Homeowners who obtain their drinking water from private wells or cisterns should take precautions to protect and maintain their drinking water supply. Water from private wells or cisterns used as a drinking water source should be tested at least once a year. EPA recommends the water be tested once a year for bacteria, nitrates, ph, and total dissolved solids.