Well drilling and well pumps provide you with a valuable resource on your property, freeing you from reliance on municipal water sources. Unfortunately, it’s possible for a well to reduce its output over time. In some cases, a well may go completely dry. Below, learn why this occurs and how to fix the issue. 

How Can You Tell a Well Is Going Dry?

The sooner you recognize the signs that a well is drying up, the sooner you can take action to fix it. Indicators of a dry well include murky or muddy-looking tap water and a change in the taste of your drinking water. 

Water pressure may also decrease. You might notice air coming through spigots, which results in sputtering water flow. In some cases, the well pump will run longer than usual, which can result in higher water bills.

What Can You Do to Fix a Dry Well?

The solution will largely depend on the cause. One common cause is that the level of the well water has dropped below the well pump. When this happens, the pump draws air into the system. A professional can measure the well depth and reposition the submersible pump so that it's below the waterline.

If well drilling was done more than 20 or 30 years ago, the well might have hit the end of its natural lifespan. In this case, hydrofracking can help. With this process, high-pressure water is injected into the bottom of the well. This opens up surrounding rocks, allowing clean water to flow in.

Another option is to deepen the well. Additional well digging allows new fractures to be found underground. These fractures allow for connections to new water aquifers, which feed the well.

How Can You Prevent a Well From Drying Up?

Water conservation will help keep a well from drying up. Invest in water-saving toilets, fix broken faucets, and ensure that the waterlines are leak-free. Finally, avoid the overuse of water. Don’t run water-demanding devices like the dishwasher and washing machine consecutively. It is also important to be mindful of your water use when you shower, brush your teeth, or style your hair. 

Stackhouse & Son Well Drilling in Bloomsburg, PA, has been providing well drilling and maintenance services throughout northeastern Pennsylvania since 1971. Customer satisfaction is their top priority, which is why they always return phone calls promptly and even offer same-day service. Whether you need hydrofracking or water pump replacement, they will be happy to help. Visit their website to review their services. To request a quote, call (570) 784-5034.