There are over 15 million households across the U.S. that rely on private wells for drinking water. However, well installation is more complicated than it may seem. There are many items to consider to ensure the best location for your new well. You have to maintain safe distances, schedule inspections and testing, and more. Below are some tips to help you in these matters. 

A Guide to Choosing a Well Installation Location  

1. Mark Contaminants

Locate all potential contamination sources on or near your property, such as septic tanks and leach fields, livestock barns, fertilizer storage, and mineral deposits. A water well should be at a safe distance away from these areas. You can ask your local health officials about their regulations on distances.

2. Find Groundwater Flow

It’s important to place the water well up-gradient from a contamination source so that pollutants move away from the well. That’s why knowing the direction of the groundwater flow is necessary. It may be difficult to determine this on your own, but a well expert can help you.

3. Do Further Research

Do some research about the wells in your area. Find a house in your neighborhood that has one. Ask the owner about particular details such as how deep it is. You can also visit a well inspection agency or testing lab and ask about the factors you need to consider when choosing a well location.

4. Siting Considerations

Before a hole is drilled into the aquifer, it’s important to know what lies beneath the topsoil, as this will affect the quality and quantity of water available. Drilling through a fractured rock zone, for instance, will produce larger quantities of water. Your local drilling contractor should be able to tell you what to expect.  

5. Land Contours

Once you’ve identified an acceptable site, choose the highest ground. It’s the safest spot for your well installation, as groundwater tends to flow downhill toward a discharge location. If a well is built at a low spot, heavy rains could flood it and contaminate the underground source with bacteria, herbicides, and pesticides.

When it comes to your well installation needs, you can count on Morgan Well & Pump in Kannapolis, NC. They can also keep your well in tip-top shape through regular water well maintenance. These experts offer high-quality solutions and services, including repairs and inspections. Call them at (704) 933-0479 to request an estimate or visit their website to learn more.