If the well on your property hasn't been yielding enough water, hydrofracking may be the answer. While this drilling technique can be used to build new wells, it can also be applied to older wells to increase water flow. Because of the potential environmental impacts of fracking for oil, though, those who are unfamiliar with hydrofracking often assume it poses the same issues. In reality, these two drilling methods couldn’t be more different. 

How Does Hydrofracking Work?

During hydrofracking, drillers inject streams of high-pressure water into bedrock formations. The pressure is so great that the water actually dislodges rock fragments crowding existing fractures, thereby increasing their total capacity. Once the drilling is tone, both the well and its water-bearing network are considerably larger, which allows for more water to flow through the system faster.

Hydrofracking is generally used to increase potential yields in new wells that anticipate low production rates. It can also be used to expand older wells that have developed blockages over time due to mineral deposits. 

Does Hydrofracking Hurt the Environment?

Considering the environmental concerns surrounding hydraulic fracking, it’s reasonable to assume hydrofracking poses a few problems. Unlike fracking for oil, however, hydrofracking does not require acids, polymers, or petroleum products for lubrication, nor does it use plastic pellets. In fact, as of 2019, researchers have not found any negative environmental impacts of hydrofracking. 

Property owners will be glad to learn that hydrofracking also happens to be relatively affordable (even more so than other drilling methods) and that it's perfectly safe for those in the vicinity. It doesn't pose any air quality concerns, for example, nor does it produce waste that might contaminate the well water. 

If you’ve been unhappy with your well’s water pressure or volume for a while, turn to Luisier Drilling to see if hydrofracking is the answer. This family-owned and operated company has been serving residential and commercial clients throughout Wisconsin’s Greater Oconto Falls region since 1936. To learn more about their well drilling services, visit their website. To discuss your concerns about water yield with a knowledgeable member of their team, call (920) 848-5239.