5 Simple Steps to Build a Well in Your Backyard

Well construction

In this age of technological advancements, access to clean water remains a fundamental challenge for many communities around the globe. While modern methods of water extraction and purification exist, there are still practical and sustainable ways to obtain water in remote or off-grid areas. One such method is the construction of a well, an古老 technique that has been employed for centuries to tap into underground aquifers.

Building a well requires a combination of planning, skill, and determination. Before embarking on this endeavor, it’s essential to understand the basic principles of well construction and to assess the geological conditions of the area where you plan to dig. This includes determining the depth of the water table, the type of soil present, and the availability of suitable materials for well casing and filtration. With the proper preparation and a systematic approach, it’s possible to construct a well that will provide a reliable source of clean water for your household or community.

The process of well construction typically involves excavating a cylindrical hole into the ground. The depth of the hole will vary depending on the depth of the water table. Once the hole is excavated, a well casing is installed to prevent the hole from collapsing and to protect the water from contamination. The type of casing material used will depend on the specific conditions of the site. Finally, a filtration system is installed at the bottom of the well to remove impurities from the water before it is pumped to the surface.

Selecting the Right Location

Determining the optimal location for your well is crucial for ensuring a successful and reliable water source. Several factors must be carefully considered in the selection process, including subsurface geology, water table depth, potential contamination sources, and existing infrastructure.

Subsurface Geology: The geological composition of the ground at the intended well site plays a significant role in assessing well potential. Favorable formations for well construction typically consist of porous and permeable materials such as sand, gravel, or fractured rock. These materials allow groundwater to flow and accumulate easily.

Water Table Depth: The depth of the water table, or the level of groundwater saturation in the ground, is a critical factor to determine. A shallow water table indicates that water is more readily available, reducing drilling costs. Conversely, a deep water table may necessitate a deeper well, which can increase expenses and pose challenges.

Potential Contamination Sources: Identifying potential sources of contamination, such as septic tanks, landfills, or agricultural activities, is essential. Wells should be sited away from these areas to minimize the risk of groundwater contamination.

Existing Infrastructure: Consider any existing infrastructure, including buildings, power lines, or pipelines, that may interfere with the well’s construction or operation. Ensuring ample space around the intended well site is crucial for both drilling and maintenance activities.

Factors to Consider for Well Location
Subsurface Geology
Water Table Depth
Potential Contamination Sources
Existing Infrastructure

Determining the Well Depth

Deciding the ideal depth for your well requires careful consideration of multiple factors. Follow these steps to estimate an appropriate depth:

1. Determine Local Groundwater Depth

Consult with local authorities or drillers to gather information about the typical groundwater depth in your area. This provides a good starting point for your well planning.

2. Assess Water Usage and Demand

Estimate your average daily water usage based on the number of occupants, appliances, and outdoor watering needs. Use this information to determine the approximate volume of water your well should produce per day. The following table provides a general estimate of water consumption for various household activities:

Activity

Gallons per Day

Drinking and Cooking

10-20

Bathing

20-30

Toilet Flushing

20-30

Washing Machine

40-50

Dishwasher

10-15

Outdoor Watering

20-50 (per hour)

3. Consider Aquifer Yield

The aquifer yield refers to the amount of water the underlying aquifer can provide. Obtain information about the aquifer’s yield from local well drillers or government agencies. This data will help you determine if the aquifer has sufficient capacity to meet your daily water requirements.

Choosing the Well Casing

The well casing is a crucial component of any well system, as it protects the well from collapse, contamination, and corrosion. When selecting a well casing, several factors must be considered.

Material

Well casings are commonly made from various materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

Concrete

Concrete casings are cost-effective and durable but require specialized equipment for installation. They are often used in large-diameter wells.

Steel

Steel casings are strong and corrosion-resistant, making them suitable for deep wells and areas with corrosive groundwater. However, they can be more expensive than other options.

PVC

PVC casings are lightweight, easy to install, and highly resistant to corrosion. They are a popular choice for residential and small-scale wells, but they may not be suitable for high-pressure applications.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass casings are non-corrosive, strong, and lightweight. They are often used in areas with corrosive groundwater or where weight is a concern.

Installing the Well Casing

The well casing is the pipe that lines the wellbore and protects it from collapse. It also provides a smooth surface that the pump can operate against. The casing is typically made of steel or plastic, and the size and thickness of the casing will depend on the depth of the well and the geology of the site.

The casing is installed in sections. The first section is called the surface casing, and it is typically 10-20 feet long. The surface casing is installed using a drilling rig, which rotates the casing into the ground. Once the surface casing is in place, the drilling rig is moved and the next section of casing is installed. This process is repeated until the casing reaches the desired depth.

The casing is typically cemented into place to prevent water from seeping into the wellbore. The cement is pumped into the space between the casing and the wellbore, and it hardens to form a seal. The cementing process can take several days to complete.

Once the casing is in place, the well is ready to be tested and put into operation. The well will be tested to ensure that it is producing the desired amount of water and that the water is of good quality.

Types of Well Casing

There are two main types of well casing: steel and plastic. Steel casing is more durable than plastic casing, but it is also more expensive. Plastic casing is less expensive than steel casing, but it is not as durable. The type of casing that is used will depend on the specific needs of the well.

Casing Material	Advantages	Disadvantages
Steel	Durable	More expensive
Plastic	Less expensive	Not as durable

Connecting the Well Head

The well head is the connection point between the well and the water pump or other equipment. Connecting the well head properly is essential for ensuring a safe and efficient water supply.

Here are the steps for connecting the well head:

1. Clean the well head and the threads of the pipe that will be connected to it.

2. Apply a sealant to the threads of the pipe and hand-tighten it into the well head.

3. Use a wrench to further tighten the pipe into the well head, being careful not to overtighten.

4. Install a check valve in the pipe near the well head to prevent water from flowing back into the well.

5. Connect the water pump or other equipment to the well head using a suitable fitting.

Pipe Size and Type for Connecting the Well Head

The size and type of pipe used to connect the well head will depend on the size and type of well and the water requirements of the home or business.

The following table provides general guidelines for pipe size and type based on well size and water flow requirements:

Well Size (diameter)	Water Flow (gallons per minute)	Pipe Size (inches)	Pipe Type
2 inches	5-10	1 inch	Copper, PVC, or PEX
4 inches	10-20	1.25 inches	Copper, PVC, or PEX
6 inches	20-40	1.5 inches	Copper, PVC, or HDPE
8 inches	40-60	2 inches	Copper, PVC, or HDPE

Running the Well Pump

Once the well is complete, it’s time to run the pump. Here are the steps involved:

1. Connect the Pump to the Well

Connect the pump to the well casing using a reducer fitting. Ensure the connections are secure.

2. Prime the Pump

Fill the pump with water to remove any air. Some pumps require manual priming, while others do it automatically.

3. Connect the Pump to the Pressure Tank

Connect the pump to the pressure tank using a flexible hose. Ensure the connections are tight.

4. Connect the Pressure Switch

Connect the pressure switch to the pressure tank. The pressure switch turns the pump on and off to maintain the desired water pressure.

5. Connect the Electrical Wiring

Connect the electrical wiring to the pump and pressure switch according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

6. Start the Pump and Adjust the Pressure

Turn on the pump and check the water pressure. Adjust the pressure switch as necessary to maintain the desired water pressure. Refer to the table below for the recommended pressure settings for different household fixtures:

Fixture	Recommended Pressure (psi)
Faucets	30-40
Toilets	20-30
Showers	40-60
Sprinklers	60-80

Sealing the Well

Once you have finished digging the well, it is important to seal it properly to prevent contamination and ensure its longevity.

Materials Required:

Material	Quantity
Concrete mix	As needed
Sand	2 bags
Gravel	1 bag
Well casing	1 section
Well cap	1
Bentonite clay	As needed

Steps:

1. Clean the Well: Remove any loose debris or dirt from the well.

2. Install the Well Casing: Insert the well casing into the hole and secure it with concrete mix.

3. Fill with Gravel: Pour gravel into the space around the well casing, up to 1 foot below the ground surface.

4. Backfill with Sand: Fill the remaining space with sand, up to 6 inches below the ground surface.

5. Install Bentonite Clay: Spread bentonite clay over the sand, creating a layer 1 foot thick.

6. Pour Concrete Collar: Mix concrete and pour it into a ring around the well casing, extending 6 inches above the ground surface.

7. Install Well Cap: Place the well cap over the casing and secure it with bolts or screws. This step is crucial as it prevents surface water and debris from entering the well.

Disinfection and Testing

Post-construction disinfection and water testing ensure the safety and potability of your well water. Follow these steps for proper disinfection and testing:

Disinfecting the Well

Calculate Chlorine Dosage: Calculate the chlorine dosage based on well volume: 1 gallon per 100 gallons for 5% bleach.
Prepare Chlorine Solution: Mix the required bleach into 5 gallons of water in a clean bucket.
Disinfect Water System: Pour the chlorine solution into the wellhead and circulate throughout the system using a submersible pump for 24 hours.
Allow Contact Time: Let the chlorine solution remain in the system for at least 24 hours.
Flush System: Pump water from the well until the chlorine odor and taste are gone. Flush all faucets, fixtures, and hoses.

Testing the Water

Collect Water Sample: Collect a water sample in a clean, sterile bottle.
Send to Lab: Send the water sample to a certified laboratory for testing.
**Test for:

Parameter	Significance
Coliform Bacteria	Indicates fecal contamination
pH	Affects taste and corrosion
Hardness	Determines water’s “feel”
Iron	Causes staining and metallic taste
Nitrates	Can be harmful to infants

4. **Interpret Results:** Review the lab results with a professional to determine if the water is safe for consumption.

Maintenance and Monitoring

1. Water Quality Testing

Regularly test your well water for contaminants such as bacteria, chemicals, and minerals to ensure it’s safe for consumption.

2. Well Chlorination

If contaminants are detected, chlorinate your well to kill bacteria and disinfect the system.

3. Pump Maintenance

Inspect and maintain your well pump regularly to ensure it’s operating efficiently and providing adequate water pressure.

4. Tank Inspection

Inspect your well tank for leaks, corrosion, or damage to prevent contamination or water loss.

5. Cap Replacement

Replace the well cap regularly to prevent debris and contaminants from entering the well.

6. Well Screen Cleaning

Clean the well screen over time to remove debris that can clog it and affect water flow.

7. Aquifer Monitoring

Monitor the water level in your aquifer to ensure it’s not being over-pumped and that there’s sufficient water supply.

8. Structural Inspection

Periodically inspect the well casing, wellhead, and other structural components for damage or corrosion.

9. Advanced Monitoring Systems

Consider using advanced monitoring systems, such as pressure transducers or water meters, to track well performance, water consumption, and aquifer levels remotely, enabling proactive maintenance and early detection of potential issues.

Monitoring Parameter	Frequency
Water Quality Testing	Annually or as per local regulations
Pump Inspection	Semi-annually or as needed
Aquifer Monitoring	Monthly or quarterly
Structural Inspection	Every 5-10 years

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Water is not flowing into the well.

– The pump may be clogged. Check the pump and remove any debris or blockages.
– The water level may be too low. If the water level is below the pump, the pump will not be able to draw water. Drill the well deeper or wait for the water level to rise.
– There may be a leak in the well casing. Inspect the well casing and seal any leaks.

2. Water is flowing into the well but not up to the surface.

– The pump may not be strong enough. Install a more powerful pump.
– The foot valve may be clogged. Check the foot valve and remove any debris or blockages.
– The water pipe may be clogged. Inspect the water pipe and remove any debris or blockages.

3. Water is flowing out of the wellhead.

– The well cap may not be on properly. Make sure the well cap is on tight.
– The well casing may be cracked or damaged. Inspect the well casing and seal any cracks or damage.
– The water pressure may be too high. Install a pressure regulator to reduce the water pressure.

4. Water is cloudy or discoloured.

– The well may be contaminated with sediment. Pump the well until the water runs clear.
– The well may be contaminated with bacteria. Shock the well with chlorine to kill the bacteria.
– The well may be contaminated with iron. Install an iron filter to remove the iron from the water.

5. Water has a bad taste or smell.

– The well may be contaminated with chemicals. Test the water to determine the source of the contamination and take appropriate action.
– The well may be contaminated with sulfur bacteria. Shock the well with chlorine to kill the bacteria.
– The water may be too hard. Install a water softener to remove the hardness from the water.

6. Water is not flowing at a constant rate.

– The water pump may be malfunctioning. Inspect the water pump and replace it if necessary.
– The water pressure may be fluctuating. Install a pressure regulator to stabilize the water pressure.
– The water source may be intermittent. Drill the well deeper to reach a more reliable water source.

7. Well is running dry.

– The water level may be too low. Drill the well deeper or wait for the water level to rise.
– The well may be overused. Reduce the amount of water you are drawing from the well.
– The well may be damaged. Inspect the well and repair any damage.

8. Pump is making noise.

– The pump may be cavitating. Adjust the pump depth or install a larger pump.
– The pump may be worn out. Replace the pump.
– The pump may be loose. Tighten the pump.

9. Water is leaking from the well pump.

– The pump may be cracked or damaged. Inspect the pump and replace it if necessary.
– The pump seals may be worn out. Replace the pump seals.
– The pump may be loose. Tighten the pump.

10. Water is leaking from the well casing.

– The well casing may be cracked or damaged. Inspect the well casing and seal any cracks or damage.
– The well casing may be corroded. Replace the well casing.
– The well casing may not be properly sealed. Apply a sealant to the well casing.

How to Make a Well

Making a well is a complex and time-consuming process, but it can be done by following the steps below.

Choose a location for the well. The location should be away from any potential sources of contamination and the water table should be high enough to provide an adequate supply of water.
Dig a hole. The hole should be 6 to 8 feet in diameter and 10 to 12 feet deep.
Line the hole with a casing. The casing can be made of concrete, plastic, or metal. The casing will help to keep the hole from collapsing and will prevent water from seeping into the ground.
Install a well screen. The well screen will keep sediment from entering the well and will allow water to flow into the well.
Install a pump. The pump will be used to draw water from the well. There are a variety of pumps available, so choose one that is appropriate for the size of the well and the amount of water that you need.
Connect the pump to a power source. The power source can be a battery, a generator, or a solar panel.
Test the well. Once the well is complete, test it to make sure that it is working properly. Test the water for quality and make sure that the pump is working properly.