Considering a Back-Up Water Supply? Benefits of a Water Well

Environmental Blog

Some homeowners want access to a back-up water supply. If this includes you, you may wish to install a water catchment system, which stores available rainwater or snow melt. Or, more reliable, consider adding a water well. The following is an explanation of the different types of wells and the basics of water well drilling.

Difference between a Water Table Well and an Artesian Well

The water table is just below the surface of the ground. The amount of water fluctuates depending on precipitation, runoff, and usage. Wells drilled into the water table tend to be shallower and almost always require a pump to pull water to the surface. In times of drought they may go dry, especially if a lot of other people are pulling from that water table.

In an aquifer, the water is stored between impermeable layers of rock, and though the level does fluctuate, it is not as drastic as in the water table. An artesian well goes deep enough to tap into this water source. The pressure on the underground water from the surrounding rock pushes the water towards the surface.

 In some cases, the water stops in the well and is usually pumped out. Aquifers under immense pressure may push the water out of the top of the well, creating a flowing artesian well.  

Basics of Water Well Digging

In most cases, digging a well is not a DIY project. In order for the well to be efficient, it must be dug as deep as possible, preferably into the aquifer. A professional driller is familiar with the geological quirks of your area and has a good idea of where to drill. In some spots the aquifer is deeper, making it more difficult to reach. This is the process of well digging:

• Once the site is determined, a drilling rig is set up. It has a powerful auger that can grind its way through various types of soil and rock. As the auger drills, it must be pulled up every so often so pipes may be installed to keep the soil and rock from collapsing into the hole.

• At the same time, core samples are studied to see if the auger is on the right track. The driller decides whether to drill straight down, horizontally, or at a slant. If things don't look promising, the driller may opt to try another site.

• Once the aquifer is penetrated, the entire hole is lined with a casing to keep it stable. Then it's ready for any needed pumps and piping to get the water to your storage area or home.

Drilling a well properly is challenging. Since your water well is an important key to your desired lifestyle, do yourself a favor and go professional. Contact an establishment like Sizer Well Service for further information.

10 November 2015