Water service in Accokeek varies by address: WSSC Water is the public utility for Prince George's County, but this historically rural area includes large wooded lots where a home's setup has to be confirmed property by property. If your house has its own well, a failed pump, pressure switch or pressure tank can leave every tap dry. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Accokeek.
Local conditions in Accokeek
Accokeek is a historically rural tobacco-farming area on the Potomac in southern Prince George's County, about 16 miles from downtown Washington, that is now mostly suburban. West of Indian Head Highway (MD 210), the Moyaone Reserve has individually designed mid-century homes on wooded lots of five acres or more, near Piscataway Park and the National Colonial Farm. Newer neighborhoods have grown up too, and the median home was built in 1997.
Because of that mix, there is no single answer for who supplies water to an Accokeek home. A WSSC bill means public water and a meter. No water bill, a well casing in the yard and a pressure tank in the basement or utility room mean a private well, with a pump you own and maintain. Prince George's County's permitting agency, DPIE, has separate sections for wells and potable water and for on-site sewage disposal systems, which is a good first stop if you are not sure what your property has.
Comparing the two setups
| Part or problem | Private well home | WSSC Water home |
|---|---|---|
| What makes the pressure | Your pump and pressure tank | The utility's mains |
| No water at all | Pump, breaker, switch or control box | Outage, main break or closed valve |
| Rapid on-off cycling | Pressure tank lost its air charge | Not applicable |
| Power outage | Water stops when the tank empties | Water keeps flowing |
| Who to call outside the house | A plumber or well contractor | WSSC Water, 301-206-4002 |
Signs to call
- No water anywhere while the lights are on
- A pump that runs and runs with every tap closed
- Air sputtering from faucets, or sand and grit in aerators
- A pressure gauge that falls quickly and climbs slowly
- A pump breaker that trips again after a reset
Timing and seasonal notes
Summer thunderstorms bring power surges that can take out pump motors and control boxes, so ask about surge protection after any storm repair. In winter, a well line or pressure switch in an unheated space can freeze and stop water just like a failed pump. WSSC Water issues permits for and inspects plumbing and all natural gas and propane installations in Prince George's County, so the plumber will know when a repair needs one.
Well Pump Repair questions in Accokeek
How do I find out whether my property has its own well?
Will I have water if the power goes out?
How often should a private well be tested?
Can a plumber pull a submersible pump, or is that a well driller's job?
More plumbing services in Accokeek
Well Pump Repair nearby
Helpful guides
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