How To Drill A Well

Introduction

Drilling your own water well can be a rewarding and cost-effective solution for accessing clean water on your property. With water utility costs rising and the independence a private well provides, it’s no wonder many property owners are considering this option. A properly drilled well can provide decades of reliable water service while potentially saving thousands of dollars in the long run. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of drilling a well, from preparation to completion, whether you’re considering doing it yourself or working with professionals.

Materials and Equipment Needed

Before starting your well-drilling project, gather these essential items:

1. Drilling equipment (manual or powered options)
2. PVC casing pipes (typically 4-6 inches in diameter)
3. Well screen
4. Submersible pump
5. Pressure tank
6. Water testing kit
7. Bentonite clay or well sealant
8. Gravel pack
9. Drill bits appropriate for your soil type
10. Safety equipment (gloves, goggles, hard hat)
11. Permits and documentation

Phase 1: Planning and Preparation

Step 1: Check Regulations and Obtain Permits

Before breaking ground, research local regulations regarding well drilling. Most jurisdictions require permits for new wells, and there may be specific requirements regarding:
– Minimum distance from septic systems (typically 50-100 feet)
– Well depth requirements
– Water testing protocols
– Professional certification requirements

Contact your local health department or water resources office to understand the requirements in your area.

Step 2: Site Selection

Choosing the right location for your well is critical:
1. Select a spot at least 50-100 feet from potential contamination sources (septic systems, livestock areas, chemical storage)
2. Consider accessibility for drilling equipment
3. Look for higher ground to avoid flooding issues
4. Research groundwater maps if available to identify promising aquifers
5. Consider proximity to your home for ease of connection to plumbing

Step 3: Soil and Geological Assessment

Understanding what’s beneath your property will help determine:
– What type of drilling method to use
– How deep you’ll likely need to drill
– What challenges you might encounter

Talk to neighbors with wells or consult local geological surveys for information about groundwater depth and quality in your area.

Phase 2: Drilling Methods

Step 1: Choose Your Drilling Method

Several methods exist for well drilling, each with advantages:

1. Manual Hand Auger:
– Suitable for shallow wells (under 50 feet)
– Inexpensive but labor-intensive
– Works best in soft soil conditions

2. Rotary Jetting:
– Uses water pressure and rotation to cut through soil
– Can be done with modified power drills
– Effective for depths up to 100 feet in sandy or soft soils

3. Percussion/Cable Tool Drilling:
– Uses a heavy bit repeatedly dropped to break up soil
– Can penetrate harder materials
– Slower but requires less specialized equipment

4. Rotary Drilling:
– Uses powered rotation with drilling mud
– Most effective for deep wells
– Usually requires professional equipment

Step 2: DIY Rotary Jetting Method

For those attempting DIY well drilling, the rotary jetting method is often most accessible:

1. Create a drilling setup with a heavy-duty drill and specialized bit
2. Connect a water supply to flush cuttings from the hole
3. Begin drilling, adding pipe extensions as you go deeper
4. Use drilling mud (bentonite clay mixed with water) to stabilize the hole
5. Continue until you reach water-bearing soil or the desired depth

Phase 3: Well Construction

Step 1: Installing Casing

Once you’ve drilled to the desired depth:
1. Insert PVC casing into the hole
2. Ensure the casing extends several feet above ground level
3. The casing should run the entire length of the well except for the screened portion

Step 2: Adding the Well Screen

1. Attach a well screen to the bottom section of casing
2. The screen allows water to enter while keeping sediment out
3. Choose a screen size appropriate for your soil conditions

Step 3: Gravel Pack and Sealing

1. Pour clean gravel around the screen area to create a natural filter
2. Fill the space between the casing and hole with bentonite clay or grout
3. This seal prevents surface contaminants from entering the well

Phase 4: Well Development and Completion

Step 1: Developing the Well

1. Flush the well to remove drilling debris and fine particles
2. Pump water in and out repeatedly to clear the screen and gravel pack
3. Continue until water runs clear

Step 2: Installing the Pump System

1. Lower a submersible pump to the appropriate depth
2. Connect electrical wiring according to manufacturer specifications
3. Install a pressure tank and control system
4. Connect to your home’s plumbing system

Step 3: Testing Water Quality

1. Allow the well to settle for 24-48 hours
2. Collect water samples according to testing kit instructions
3. Send samples to a certified lab for comprehensive testing
4. Address any water quality issues with appropriate filtration

Cost Considerations

DIY well drilling can save substantial money compared to professional services. While professional drilling might cost $6,000-$15,000 depending on depth and location, a DIY approach might cost $1,000-$3,000 for materials and equipment rental. However, consider these factors:

– Equipment rental or purchase costs
– Material quality and durability
– Your time investment
– Potential for complications
– Local regulations that may require professional certification

FAQ About Well Drilling

How deep should I drill my well?

The required depth varies greatly by location. Some areas might find water at 30-50 feet, while others may need to drill 300+ feet. Research local well depths or consult with neighbors who have wells. Generally, deeper wells provide more reliable water supply and better protection from surface contaminants.

How much water flow can I expect from my well?

A residential well typically needs to produce 3-5 gallons per minute for adequate household use. When drilling, professionals measure flow rates to ensure sufficient supply. As one driller noted, hitting 2.5 gallons per minute at 305 feet is considered acceptable for residential use.

Can I legally drill my own well?

This depends entirely on your location. Some jurisdictions allow homeowner-drilled wells with proper permits, while others require licensed professionals. Always check local regulations before starting. Even in areas where DIY is permitted, the well may need inspection before use.

What’s the difference between driven, dug, and drilled wells?

Driven wells are created by driving a small-diameter pipe into the ground, suitable only for shallow water tables. Dug wells are wider, shallow excavations, typically lined with brick or stone. Drilled wells are narrow (4-12 inches) but can reach hundreds of feet deep, accessing deeper aquifers with cleaner water.

How long will my well last?

A properly constructed well can last 30-50 years or more. The pump system typically needs replacement every 8-15 years, but the well structure itself, if properly maintained, can provide water for decades.

Remember that while DIY well drilling is possible, it requires careful planning, proper equipment, and adherence to local regulations. For deeper wells or challenging soil conditions, professional drilling services may be the most practical option despite the higher cost.