3 Interesting Facts About Water Wells

Water wells are holes dug into the earth to provide water. Most people who live in areas without nearby lakes or rivers depend on them to get fresh water. According to the National Ground Water Association, private household wells comprise the largest share of all water wells. More than 13,135 occupied households in the United States have their own wells. Whether you’re looking to construct a water well or simply want to learn more about them, here are three interesting facts that you should know.

1. There Are Three Types Of Water Wells

You may not be aware that water wells come in three different types. You can choose to build a dug, driven, or drilled well. Dug wells are typically dug by hand stones, backhoes, or any other hard material. They are extensive but shallow and not well-lined. Driven wells are constructed by driving pipes into the ground. They are usually 30 to 50 feet in depth. Such wells are completely cased, and they draw water from nearby sources. Drilled wells are typically dug using drilling machines and can go up to thousands of feet in depth. They are entirely enclosed, providing a low risk of contamination.

2. Wells Rely on Rainwater

Wells depend on rainwater to provide us with enough water supply. According to USGS, over 25% of global rainwater becomes groundwater. If you conduct proper preparation and reach, your well should never run dry. Medium-to-deep wells can last a lifetime if they are properly dug and maintained.

3. The Deeper the Well, the Less Risk for Contamination

People have found many ways of keeping their well water clean and contaminant-free. The best way to do this is to limit any activity near the well, such as washing a car, irrigating crops, and other outdoor activities that could introduce chemicals to the ground near the well. Digging the well too deep can help keep the water safe. Shallow wells are near the surface and often not protected from run-off toxins. Deep wells will usually have concrete casings to filter contaminants.

If you’re interested in enjoying the benefits of water wells, contact JB Water Well today to learn more about our well drilling services. We look forward to assisting you!