Preparedness
Unlocking Water Independence Digging Your Own Well Explained
Water is the lifeblood of any homestead, serving essential functions such as drinking, cooking, and sanitation, as well as supporting farm animals, livestock, and gardens. While many rely on public water systems, these can be unreliable or inaccessible, especially in rural areas. This makes having a personal well not just beneficial, but crucial for ensuring a consistent water supply.
Before embarking on the journey of digging a well, it’s important to clarify your purpose. Are you looking to establish a primary water source for your household, or do you need water primarily for agricultural purposes? The type of well you need will vary based on these requirements. For non-consumable water needs, like landscaping, a DIY approach might suffice. However, for potable water, it’s wise to engage licensed professionals to ensure safety and quality.
Historically, humans have been digging wells for centuries, but modern considerations make it more complex than simply grabbing a shovel. Most jurisdictions have regulations concerning well construction. For instance, some states mandate permits for drilling beyond certain depths, or require professional drilling services.
Before starting your project, it’s crucial to research local regulations. Key questions include:
– Are there specific city regulations for water wells?
– How deep must the well be to access healthy water?
– What are the restrictions on well width and distance from structures or sewer lines?
– Are there underground utilities to consider?
– What permits or permissions are necessary?
Once you’ve navigated the regulatory landscape, selecting the right location is vital. Investigate whether nearby wells exist, which could affect water availability. Assess the topography and sub-surface conditions, such as aquifers or rock formations. Avoid areas near septic systems, sewers, or waste sites to prevent contamination.
Understanding the depth needed is another critical factor. In many regions, wells must reach depths of 100 feet or more to ensure both water availability and purity. This depth often necessitates professional involvement due to safety concerns and the need for structural integrity.
If you decide to proceed with a DIY well, you’ll need specific equipment, such as:
– 1.5 times the depth of air hose relative to your well depth
– 1.5 times the depth of 1″ PVC pipe for the well tube
– 300 feet of rope or more, depending on well depth
– 5 feet of 8″ PVC and 10 feet of 2″ PVC
The basic steps for constructing a well, as outlined by A&T Well and Pump, begin with digging a hole about 5 feet deep using an auger or post-hole digger. An 8″ PVC pipe is then cut to fit, with 4 inches protruding above the ground. A 2″ hole is drilled into the side for a smaller PVC pipe, which extends to a settling pond 10 feet away. This setup facilitates water transfer and sediment settling.
Next, attach a PVC pipe to a drill, ensuring it is leak-proof, and connect it to a 55-gallon drum to manage mud and water flow. Fill the well hole with water, activate the drill, and maneuver it to break up the soil. As you deepen the well, additional pipe sections are added.
Upon reaching the desired depth, secure the well with SDR 35 pipe, extending 3 feet above ground, and stabilize it with concrete and pea gravel to prevent contamination. Finally, install a well pump, flush the system until the water runs clear, and test the water for safety.
For those interested in a visual guide, A&T Well and Pump offers a YouTube video demonstrating the well-digging process.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.