Well Drilling FAQs
Do you have questions about well drilling? We've got answers!
Read below for helpful answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. If you don't see a question you have, please don't hesitate to contact us directly!
Well Drilling FAQs
1. How do I know if I need a well?
A water well is typically needed when a property is not connected to a municipal water supply. This is common in rural or remote areas. A well provides an independent and reliable source of water for all household needs, including drinking, bathing, and cleaning.
2. What is the process of drilling a water well?
The process begins with a site evaluation to determine the best location for the well. A driller will then use a specialized rig to drill a borehole into the ground until a suitable aquifer (an underground layer of water-bearing permeable rock, rock fractures or unconsolidated materials) is reached. Once the well is drilled, it is cased and a pump system is installed to bring the water to the surface.
3. How much does it cost to drill a water well?
The cost of drilling a well varies widely depending on several factors, including the depth of the well, the type of rock formations encountered, the cost of the casing and pump system, and local labor rates. It is essential to get a detailed quote from a reputable driller that includes all potential costs.
4. How deep will my well need to be?
The depth of a well is determined by the depth of the local water table and the characteristics of the aquifer. A hydrogeological survey or a review of nearby well logs can provide a good estimate. However, the exact depth is not known until the drilling process is complete.
5. How long does it take to drill a water well?
The time it takes to drill a well typically takes 1-2 days, depending on the depth and geological conditions. A shallow well in soft soil may be drilled quickly, while a deep well through hard rock will take much longer.
6. What is a well pump, and what kind do I need?
A well pump is a mechanical device that pushes or pulls water from the well up to the surface and into your home's water system. The type of pump you need depends on the well's depth and the desired water pressure. Common types include jet pumps for shallow wells and submersible pumps for deeper wells.
7. How do I maintain my water well?
To ensure a long lifespan and safe water, regular maintenance is crucial. This includes periodic testing of the water quality, inspecting the well cap and surrounding area for any damage, and having the pump and pressure tank checked by a professional every few years.
8. Is well water safe to drink?
While well water can be a great source of drinking water, it is not always guaranteed to be safe. It can contain naturally occurring minerals or contaminants. It is highly recommended to have your well water tested by a certified lab at least once a year for bacteria and other common contaminants. If the water tests positive for contaminants, a water treatment system may be necessary.
9. What is a well casing, and why is it important?
The well casing is a large-diameter pipe that is lowered into the drilled hole. Its primary function is to prevent the well from collapsing and to keep contaminants, such as surface water runoff, from entering the well. It also provides a stable structure for installing the well pump.
10. What is a good water flow rate for a well?
An ideal flow rate depends on the depth of the well. It’s a balance between flow and storage capacity. Based on the guidelines and recommendations from the Nova Scotia Department of Environment and the results from the flow/recovery test conducted, the well is recovering at a rate that meets and exceeds the minimum guidelines as set by the NS Department of Environment. Please contact us for more details about this.
