Table of Contents
What is the purpose of a water well?
Basically, a well is a hole drilled into the ground to access water contained in an aquifer. A pipe and a pump are used to pull water out of the ground, and a screen filters out unwanted particles that could clog the pipe.
What is a well for water?
A well is an excavation or structure created in the ground by digging, driving, or drilling to access liquid resources, usually water. The well water is drawn up by a pump, or using containers, such as buckets, that are raised mechanically or by hand. Water can also be injected back into the aquifer through the well.
Where does well water go after it is used?
Water leaving our homes generally goes either into a septic tank in the back yard where it seeps back into the ground, or is sent to a wastewater-treatment plant through a sewer system.
Is well water safe to drink?
Well water can be safe for drinking and all other household needs, as long as you make sure to test your water supply regularly and select treatment solutions in line with your results. Learn more about the well water treatment options that are available for your specific needs.
How long do wells usually last?
Most wells have a lifespan of 20-30 years. Since sediment and mineral scale build up overtime, water output may wane over the years.
What is better well water or city water?
As a natural source from the Earth, well water automatically tastes better than city water. Well water is also healthier because it’s full of minerals and isn’t treated with harsh chemicals. Because of this, city water has a longer, more intense cleaning process that causes more problems than benefits to our health.
Is well water safe to shower in?
If your water at home is from a private well or small community well, you should boil the water or use approved bottled water for drinking. Sometimes a well is more likely to become contaminated with bacteria. Bathing is not a problem using well water.
Does well water need to be filtered?
There are more than 15 million homes with well water in the United States, and it is generally safe to use and consume. Well water almost always requires some softening and filtration to make it ideal for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
What is the purpose of a modern water well?
A modern water well is an expertly engineered and constructed method of delivering groundwater for drinking, irrigation, and other purposes. And Wellowner.org is your one-stop resource for information relating to private water well systems and groundwater.
What kind of pump does a water well system use?
At the heart of each system is a pump, and the most common types are jet pumps and submersible pumps. In many areas of the country, finding potable water is as easy as getting out a shovel and digging a hole in the ground.
Which is the best way to rehabilitate a water well?
The two most common methods to rehabilitate a water well are: Physical methods include using a brush attached to a drilling rig, high pressure jetting, hydrofracturing, and well surging. Brush to be attached to drilling rig as one method of physical rehabilitation.
Why is it important to know the basics of a well?
Knowing the basics about water wells is important whether you are planning a well, are a new well owner, or have owned a well for a long time. Knowing the basics can equip you to make sound decisions about your water well system.