Digging Deep: A Comprehensive Guide to Building Your Own Water Well

Access to clean, reliable water is essential for survival and a comfortable life. While municipal water systems are common, they aren’t always available or reliable, especially in rural areas. Building your own water well can provide independence and control over your water source. However, it’s a significant undertaking that requires careful planning, knowledge, and effort. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from initial considerations to the final steps of enjoying fresh, well water.

I. Understanding the Basics: Is Well Water Right for You?

Before you grab a shovel and start digging, it’s crucial to assess whether building a well is the right solution for your needs. Consider the following factors:

* **Water Needs:** How much water do you need daily? Consider household consumption (drinking, cooking, bathing, laundry, etc.), irrigation needs for a garden or lawn, and any livestock requirements. A family of four typically uses around 400 gallons of water per day.
* **Water Table Depth:** The depth of the water table significantly impacts the feasibility and cost of building a well. A shallow water table is easier and less expensive to reach, while a deep one requires specialized equipment and more extensive labor. Research local groundwater resources and consult with well drilling professionals to determine the approximate depth of the water table in your area. Your local county or city government should have well logs available for viewing.
* **Soil Conditions:** The type of soil affects the digging process, the stability of the well, and the quality of the water. Sandy soil is easier to dig through but may require more extensive casing to prevent collapse. Clay soil can be difficult to dig but may provide better natural filtration. Rocky soil can pose significant challenges, requiring specialized equipment to break through. A soil test is recommended.
* **Local Regulations and Permits:** Building a well is almost always subject to local, state, and federal regulations. These regulations ensure the well is constructed safely and doesn’t contaminate groundwater resources. Contact your local health department or environmental agency to determine the necessary permits and requirements before starting any work. Expect to pay fees and follow guidelines on well location, construction materials, and water testing.
* **Budget:** Building a well can be a significant investment. The cost varies depending on the depth of the well, the type of equipment used, and whether you hire professionals for certain aspects of the project. Factor in the cost of permits, materials (casing, pump, piping), equipment rental (if needed), labor (if hiring professionals), and ongoing maintenance.

II. Planning and Preparation: The Foundation for Success

Thorough planning and preparation are essential to minimize risks and ensure a successful well-building project. This phase involves research, site selection, and gathering the necessary tools and materials.

* **Research and Consultations:**

* **Local Well Logs:** Examine well logs from nearby properties. These logs provide valuable information about water table depths, soil conditions, and well yields in your area. This information can help you estimate the feasibility and cost of your own well.
* **Geological Surveys:** Consult geological surveys or hire a geologist to assess the subsurface conditions of your property. This can help you identify potential aquifers (underground layers of water-bearing rock or soil) and avoid areas with contamination risks.
* **Well Drilling Professionals:** Talk to experienced well drilling professionals. They can provide expert advice on well design, drilling techniques, and equipment selection. Even if you plan to do most of the work yourself, consulting with professionals can help you avoid costly mistakes.
* **Site Selection:**

* **Distance from Potential Contamination Sources:** Choose a well site that is far away from potential sources of contamination, such as septic tanks, livestock pens, fuel tanks, and chemical storage areas. Regulations typically specify minimum distances to these sources.
* **Accessibility:** Select a site that is accessible for drilling equipment and future maintenance. Ensure there is adequate space for equipment to maneuver and for storing materials.
* **Elevation:** Consider the elevation of the well site relative to surrounding areas. Higher elevations are less likely to be affected by flooding or surface runoff.
* **Property Lines and Easements:** Verify property lines and easements to ensure the well site is located entirely on your property and doesn’t encroach on any easements.
* **Gathering Tools and Materials:**

* **Digging Equipment:** Depending on the soil conditions and the desired well depth, you may need various digging tools, such as shovels, post hole diggers, augers, or even a backhoe. For deeper wells, consider renting or hiring a well drilling rig.
* **Casing:** Well casing is essential to prevent the well from collapsing and to protect the water source from contamination. Choose durable, non-corrosive casing materials, such as PVC or steel. The diameter of the casing should be large enough to accommodate the pump and any necessary piping.
* **Well Screen:** A well screen is installed at the bottom of the casing to filter out sediment and debris while allowing water to flow into the well. Select a screen with an appropriate mesh size for the type of soil in your area.
* **Gravel Pack (Optional):** A gravel pack can be placed around the well screen to improve filtration and increase the well’s yield, especially in sandy or silty soils. The gravel should be clean and properly sized for the screen and surrounding soil.
* **Pump:** The pump is used to draw water from the well and deliver it to your home or irrigation system. Select a submersible pump or a jet pump based on the depth of the well and your water needs.
* **Piping:** Use durable, non-toxic piping to connect the pump to your water system. Choose piping materials that are resistant to corrosion and pressure.
* **Well Cap:** A well cap is essential to seal the top of the well and prevent contamination. Choose a cap that is watertight and tamper-proof.
* **Sanitizing Materials:** Purchase chlorine bleach or other approved sanitizing agents to disinfect the well after construction.
* **Safety Gear:** Always wear appropriate safety gear when working on a well, including gloves, eye protection, a hard hat, and sturdy boots.

III. Step-by-Step Construction: Digging, Casing, and Pumping

The construction phase is where you physically build the well. The specific steps may vary depending on the chosen method and the local conditions, but the following is a general outline:

**A. Digging the Well:**

1. **Mark the Well Site:** Clearly mark the location of the well using stakes or paint. Ensure the location complies with all local regulations and setback requirements.
2. **Start Digging:** Begin digging the well using the chosen digging method. For shallow wells, hand digging may be sufficient. For deeper wells, consider using an auger or renting a drilling rig. Maintain a consistent diameter throughout the digging process.
3. **Monitor Soil Conditions:** Observe the soil conditions as you dig. Note any changes in soil type, color, or moisture content. This information can help you determine the depth of the water table and the suitability of the soil for well construction.
4. **Ensure Stability:** As you dig, take precautions to prevent the well from collapsing. Use shoring or temporary casing to support the walls of the well. Never enter an unsupported well, as the risk of collapse is significant.
5. **Reach the Water Table:** Continue digging until you reach the water table. You’ll notice that the soil becomes saturated with water. Dig a little deeper to ensure the well has sufficient water storage capacity.

**B. Installing the Casing and Screen:**

1. **Prepare the Casing:** Cut the casing to the appropriate length, ensuring it extends above the ground surface by at least one foot. Clean the inside of the casing to remove any debris.
2. **Attach the Well Screen:** Connect the well screen to the bottom of the casing. Use appropriate fittings and sealant to ensure a watertight connection. A screw on fitting is usually used for this. Seal the fitting with Teflon tape to ensure a water tight fit.
3. **Lower the Casing into the Well:** Carefully lower the casing and screen into the well. Ensure the casing is centered in the well and that the screen is positioned at the bottom.
4. **Install Gravel Pack (Optional):** If using a gravel pack, pour the gravel around the outside of the casing to fill the space between the casing and the well walls. This will improve filtration and increase the well’s yield.
5. **Seal the Annular Space:** Seal the annular space (the space between the casing and the well walls) with bentonite clay or other approved sealant. This prevents surface water from contaminating the well. This is a very important step.

**C. Installing the Pump and Piping:**

1. **Select the Right Pump:** Choose a submersible pump or a jet pump based on the depth of the well and your water needs. Submersible pumps are placed inside the well, while jet pumps are located above ground.
2. **Connect the Piping:** Connect the piping to the pump, ensuring all connections are watertight. Use appropriate fittings and sealant to prevent leaks.
3. **Lower the Pump into the Well (for Submersible Pumps):** Carefully lower the submersible pump into the well, suspending it from the casing using a safety rope or cable. Ensure the pump is positioned above the well screen.
4. **Connect to the Power Source:** Connect the pump to a power source. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for wiring and grounding. Use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet for safety.

**D. Sanitizing the Well:**

1. **Calculate the Well Volume:** Determine the volume of water in the well. This is necessary to calculate the correct amount of sanitizing agent to use. The volume (in gallons) can be approximated by: Volume = pi * (radius of casing in feet)^2 * (depth of water in well in feet) * 7.48 gallons/cubic foot
2. **Add Sanitizing Agent:** Add chlorine bleach or other approved sanitizing agent to the well. Use a concentration of at least 50 parts per million (ppm). This usually translates to about 1-3 quarts of household bleach per 100 gallons of water in the well. Always check the bleach concentration as different bleach products can have different concentrations.
3. **Circulate the Water:** Circulate the water in the well by running the pump for several hours. This will ensure the sanitizing agent reaches all parts of the well. Connect a hose to an outside spigot and run the water until you can smell the bleach. Close the spigot and let the well sit for at least 12 hours, preferably 24 hours.
4. **Flush the Well:** After the sanitizing period, flush the well by running the pump until the chlorine smell is gone. Dispose of the water properly, avoiding contact with vegetation or waterways.

**E. Testing the Water Quality:**

1. **Collect a Sample:** After sanitizing and flushing the well, collect a water sample and send it to a certified laboratory for testing.
2. **Test for Contaminants:** Test the water for bacteria, nitrates, pesticides, and other contaminants. Ensure the water meets all applicable drinking water standards. Common tests include: Coliform Bacteria, E. coli, Nitrate, Nitrite, Arsenic, Lead, Copper, Fluoride. You may also want to test for pH, total dissolved solids (TDS) and Hardness.
3. **Address Any Problems:** If the water tests positive for contaminants, take corrective action, such as installing a water filtration system or seeking professional advice.

IV. Safety Considerations: Protecting Yourself and Your Water Source

Building a well involves inherent risks. It’s crucial to prioritize safety throughout the entire process.

* **Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):** Always wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, eye protection, a hard hat, and sturdy boots. This will protect you from injuries and exposure to hazardous materials.
* **Confined Space Entry:** Never enter an unsupported well. The risk of collapse is significant and can be fatal. If you must enter a well, use proper confined space entry procedures and equipment.
* **Electrical Safety:** Use caution when working with electrical equipment. Ensure all wiring is properly grounded and that you are using GFCI outlets. Never work with electrical equipment in wet conditions.
* **Chemical Handling:** Handle sanitizing agents and other chemicals with care. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and disposal. Wear gloves and eye protection to prevent contact.
* **Water Source Protection:** Take precautions to protect the water source from contamination. Never allow pollutants to enter the well. Properly seal the annular space to prevent surface water from entering.
* **Call Before You Dig:** Before digging, call your local “Call Before You Dig” service (usually 811 in the United States) to locate any underground utilities. This will prevent you from damaging utility lines and causing potential hazards.

V. Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Keeping Your Well Running Smoothly

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the long-term reliability and quality of your well water.

* **Regular Inspections:** Inspect the well casing, cap, and surrounding area regularly for signs of damage or deterioration. Repair any problems promptly.
* **Water Testing:** Test the water quality annually to ensure it continues to meet drinking water standards. This will help you detect any changes in water quality and take corrective action.
* **Pump Maintenance:** Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for pump maintenance. This may include cleaning the pump, lubricating moving parts, and checking for wear and tear. The pump life is typically 10-15 years.
* **Well Cleaning:** Periodically clean the well to remove sediment and debris. This can be done by pumping the well vigorously or by using a well cleaning service.
* **Troubleshooting Common Problems:**

* **Low Water Pressure:** Low water pressure can be caused by a clogged well screen, a failing pump, or a leak in the piping. Inspect the well screen and pump and repair any leaks.
* **Cloudy Water:** Cloudy water can be caused by sediment in the well or by a high concentration of minerals. Clean the well or install a water filtration system.
* **Strange Taste or Odor:** A strange taste or odor in the water can be caused by contamination or by a high concentration of minerals. Test the water and take corrective action.
* **Pump Running Constantly:** If the pump is running constantly, it may indicate a leak in the system or a problem with the well’s recharge rate. Inspect the system for leaks and contact a well professional if the problem persists.

VI. Alternative Methods and Considerations

While this guide focuses on traditional well-building methods, there are alternative approaches to consider, as well as other factors that can impact your decision:

* **Driven Point Wells:** These wells are created by driving a pointed pipe into the ground until it reaches the water table. They are suitable for shallow wells in sandy or gravelly soils. This is a good choice for an irrigation well for a garden.
* **Dug Wells:** Dug wells are traditional wells that are dug by hand. They are typically shallow and have a large diameter. This requires shoring the sides so the well does not collapse.
* **Well Sharing Agreements:** If you have a neighbor with an existing well, you may be able to enter into a well-sharing agreement. This can be a more cost-effective alternative to building your own well. However, you must ensure that it is acceptable with your city, county and state and that the water is of good quality. Also, you have to consider water flow during periods of high water usage.
* **Rainwater Harvesting:** Rainwater harvesting can supplement your well water supply. Collect rainwater from your roof and store it in a tank for use in irrigation or other non-potable applications. This is a good method of supplementing the use of well water.
* **Water Conservation:** Conserving water can reduce your reliance on well water. Implement water-saving practices in your home and garden, such as using low-flow fixtures and watering plants efficiently. This can extend the life of the well and reduce the risk of water shortages.

VII. Conclusion: A Rewarding, Self-Sufficient Water Solution

Building your own water well is a challenging but rewarding project. It provides independence, control over your water source, and a sense of self-sufficiency. By following the steps outlined in this guide, prioritizing safety, and seeking professional advice when needed, you can successfully build a well that provides clean, reliable water for years to come. Remember to research local regulations, plan carefully, and maintain your well properly to ensure its longevity and the quality of your water supply. The joy of drinking water you retrieved from the ground under your property is something very satisfying. Good Luck!