Many Southwest Missourians rely on private wells to supply their drinking water. When well drilling is required for a new one, however, there are several factors to consider before selecting a location. Fortunately, Hewitt-Messenger Well Drilling & Pump Service is here to help. They’ll help you select the perfect location for your water source.

3 Features That Affect Well Drilling Locations

1. Terrain & Accessibility

The terrain and accessibility of your location will affect the amount and quality of water your well produces. You want it to be convenient to access, but it also must be a safe distance from potential contaminants. Soils that contain clay, fine sand, or silt are easier to drill and also help filter out contaminants. If your terrain is rockier, you’ll need to drill deeper to access the water table and avoid potential contamination.

2. Distance From Utility Lines & Septic Systems

While accessibility is often a top priority for homeowners, well drilling should only take place at a safe distance from utility lines and septic systems. Most county health departments have minimum regulations regarding the distance between water wells and potential contaminants. You can contact your local health officials to find out what their regulations are, or your contractor can help with this. In most cases, though, the minimum safe distance is 15 meters, or about 50 feet.

3. Future Additions

If there’s a possibility you’ll build additional structures on your land, consider potential locations before you drill your well to avoid installing it where you plan to add another building in a few years. Discuss these possibilities with your well drilling contractor so they can adjust accordingly. This will ensure your well is accessible from your home and any future structures you may add, and that it doesn’t interfere with your plans for growth.

Choosing a site is just the beginning of the well drilling process, which is complex. That’s why it’s important to work with the experts at Hewitt-Messenger Well Drilling & Pump Service in Nixa, MO. They’ll handle everything from drilling to installing your well pump. Their maintenance and repair services include pump service and water purification. To learn more, visit them online, or call (417) 725-8816 for more information.