Water Well Pump Installation
Alton Pump Services were recently asked to install a new water well for a client who were having problems with leaks from their old 18th century well.
As their only fresh water source, it was vital that the well function correctly and safely. The clients instructed Alton Pump Services to complete the work, including the installation of a new pump.
Water wells were used as a way to access groundwater in underground aquifers, some are still used today in rural parts of the UK, such as this property in Hampshire. Most wells can provide a continuous supply of water throughout the year, but in periods of drought there is a chance they can run dry.
It is important to avoid using chemicals such as paint or fertiliser near your well to avoid substances leaching into ground and contaminating the water. For the same reason, wells should be located away from septic tanks, cesspits and soakaways. The location should also allow rainwater to flow away from the well as surface ground water can pick up harmful bacteria and chemicals which could seep in and contaminate your water.
What Types Of Pump Are Suitable For Wells?
At Alton Pump Services we can supply and install a range of surface mounted self priming pumps or submersible wells pumps for domestic and commercial applications. Well pumps can be utilised to access water from reservoirs, tanks, springs or wells. To supply a constant pressurised flow of water, well pumps can be controlled by a float switch coupled to pressure vessels.
WHAT IS WELL WATER USED FOR?
Well water is an economic and environmentally friendly, complementary source to mains water. In some properties in rural parts of the UK, well water may be the only source of water available. Unlike tap water, well water is not treated with chemicals to filter out bacteria and microorganisms. Instead, it is naturally filtered by the layers of rock and soil that it passes through. Wells can be contaminated through groundwater movement and surface water seepage and run-off. As such, well water is not guaranteed to be bacteria-free, but can still be used can be used for a number of activities such as:
1. IRRIGATION
Well water is typically pH balanced, which is suitable for plants. Treated tap water can often be more acidic or alkaline. In addition, well water often contains more nutrients such as calcium, sodium and magnesium than tap water. The extra nutrients can help plants grow healthy and strong.
2. WASHING VEHICLES
Some contaminants found in untreated well water such as iron, sediment, chemicals or solvents can cause damage to your car paint, trims or metal work. Consequently, it is important to check your water is safe before using it to wash vehicles. Regular testing will help alert you to any changes in the water quality, and filtration systems will help make the water safe to use.
3. WASHING CLOTHES
Without treatment well water may have a high mineral content, which when used as a water source for washing clothes could cause issues, such as stains on clothing. By installing a treatment system to soften the water and filter specific minerals, your well water can be safely used to wash clothes.
4. TOILET FLUSHING
Many rural properties that do not have a mains supply will use well water, or a rain water harvesting system to recycle water economically. With a suitable pump installed, well water can be utilised to flush your toilet(s).
5. DRINKING WATER
If the well is properly tested, water is safe to drink and cook with. Proper sealing and filtration can help prevent any bacterial contamination. In addition, to ensure water safety, you can install a water filtration system directly at your tap. Testing well water regularly will also identify things like iron and sulphide levels, as well as your water’s hardness which can determine which added systems you need in place.
Well Water Pumping Applications:
- Residential water supply and home water well pumping
- Commercial water pumping
- Water extraction
- Mining and industrial water removal
If you require assistance with your water well or pump, or if you have any questions about the supply of water into your home, please call our expert team of pump engineers 01420 561661.
