Drilling A New Well? Here’s What To Know

Drilling a well is a difficult task that requires hard work, careful consideration, and expert know-how to complete. Nonetheless, those who have drilled their own well or had our drilling company install one for them can attest that, though the process is laborious, it’s well worth it. So, if you’ve decided upon drilling a new well on your property — congratulations! You’re well on your way to enjoying the benefits of convenient, clean water.

We at North Florida Water Systems Inc would like to share three things anyone having a new well drilled on their property should know about the process. Keep these things in mind and everything should go smoothly!

Want some professional help drilling a new well? Contact the experts at our water well drilling company to learn more about our new well services!

Location Matters

There are many things to consider when deciding on a drilling site. Of course the site’s location should account for convenient water retrieval without negatively impacting the appearance of the property, but there are also safety concerns and civic obligations to be addressed at this stage as well.

Safety

Wells should be drilled far away from any potential contaminants. Septic systems, animal pens, industrial facilities, garbage dumps, and buried fuel tanks are all capable of contaminating well water if located in close proximity to the drilling site. Additionally, construct the well away from any streams, rivers, ponds, or other surface waters as they may contain biological or industrial contaminants. Lastly, ensure that the drilling site is located in a spot where any potentially contaminated water flows away from the well, not towards it.

Civic Responsibilities

The last thing you want to do is drill somewhere that will negatively affect your neighbors or community. If a new well is constructed too close to an old well that’s still being used they will likely interfere with one another. Research property lines and the location of other nearby wells to avoid intruding on a neighboring property or accidentally contaminating their water quality. Also, check with local utility companies before setting a drill site to avoid hitting any buried power lines.

Our team of experienced well drillers are well-versed in the art of finding safe, responsible drill sites that provide convenient access to water — and they can help you find the same. Call us for more information on new well locations!

Test The Water Quality

Before drilling anywhere, have the quality of the site’s groundwater tested. Over time, pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers can seep into the groundwater, making it unsafe for consumption. Additionally, consuming naturally-occuring chemicals such as arsenic, selenium, and boron can make you sick.

The area’s geology also affects the quality of groundwater you will receive. For example, soil such as clay and fine sand are more effective at keeping contaminants from seeping into groundwater than other types of soil - yet another reason why a good location is so significant.

After drilling the new well the first hundred gallons or so will likely be muddy — this is normal. However, just because the well water clears up eventually doesn’t mean the water is ready for consumption, there may still be bacteria, nitrates, or other contaminants present. Don’t consume any water from the completed well until it has been tested.

It’s recommended that well owners schedule water testing at least once a year. We offer water testing services and water treatment systems such as whole house water filters to ensure drinking water is clean and crisp!

Follow Legal Requirements

In Florida, as in many other states, those hoping to drill a new well will need to acquire a permit before breaking ground. As the quality of drinking water is a public health concern, many municipalities across the country demand the acquisition of permits from local water management districts. Additionally, the Floridian aquifers are vital resources and there are laws in place to protect them. These laws ensure wells are constructed, operated, and abandoned in ways that will not contaminate our greatest groundwater resources.

Drilling a well without receiving the relevant permits or licenses is dangerous and if discovered will result in fines and fees. Always go through the appropriate channels before drilling a new well or performing any kind of new construction. When making use of our new well drilling services our team can help you complete the necessary paperwork as well as acquire any essential permits or licenses from the county.