We were told after getting rust stains in the sinks and toilets that we have excess iron in the water. Hence the softener guys put in an expensive iron filter that we rent, and so we'd like to end that arrangement. Then the builder from next door said that sometimes iron in the water can be from sediment or build up in the basement well tank, (which I'd say is 20+ years old) and I should get after it there. My question....is this true? How would I know for sure and what do I do? Thanks very much!

My above ground jet pump was converted to a submersible system last spring. I always used a ceramic heater to keep it unfrozen when I'm away most of the winter (northern Minnesota), but now there's nothing in the pump house more than a few inches above ground, so I wonder if that will work. It also has an artesian overflow. It used to have a valve so I could shut off the house line but it appears that they removed it and I never paid attention until now. So now I'm doubly concerned. If the overflow were to freeze or get clogged somehow the water would flow into the house. There is a shutoff valve in the crawlspace, but when I leave that won't be heated either. The pressure tank is also in the crawlspace. I'm kinda pissed, at them and at me for not noticing these things sooner.