n a year, the installation of residential wells in the U.S. is approximately 500,000.

Interested in drilling a well for your home?

If you want to have well water at your home, you need to drill a well. But how deep should a well be for drinking water?

The general rule is that well drilling should be as deep as possible to reach an adequate water supply. That said, there are many factors to consider when drilling a well. 

That is why it is best to consult with a professional before starting any drilling project.

Want to learn more? Read on to find out!

How Deep Should a Well Be for Drinking Water?

For many people who live in rural areas, a water well is the only water source for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

But how deep does a water well need to be safe?

The answer depends on several factors. This includes the type of water well drilling method used.

As well as the water well pump installed and the local water table.

Shallow water wells are less than 30 feet deep, while deep water wells can be over 1,000 feet deep.

There are also artesian water wells, which are often much deeper than 1,000 feet.

Shallow water wells are often less expensive to drill and easier to maintain. Yet, they can be vulnerable to contamination from surface water runoff.

Deepwater wells are more costly to drill but can provide a safer and more reliable water source.

Determining the depth of your water well depends on your needs. As well as the characteristics of your property.

What Are the Types of Water Well Drilling Methods Used?

There are two main types of water well drilling methods. They are rotary drilling and percussion drilling. 

Rotary drilling is the most common type of well drilling. It uses a large drill bit that rotates to cut through the rock and soil. 

Percussion drilling is less common but is usable in areas where the soil is too hard for rotary drilling.

A heavy drill bit repeatedly pounds into the ground to break up the rock and soil in this method.

What Type of Water Well Pump Do I Need?

Once you have drilled your well, you will need to install a water well pump.

There are two main types of water well pumps: submersible pumps and jet pumps.

Submersible pumps install below the water level and help draw water up from deep wells.

Jet pumps install above the water level and use a jet of water to draw water up from shallow wells.

What Is the Local Water Table?

The local water table is the level of groundwater in an area. The water table can rise and fall depending on rainfall and evaporation. 

The water table is often highest in the spring and summer and lowest in the fall and winter. 

Get Well Water Installation Help From Experts

Now you know more about well water. How deep should a well be for drinking water again?

The answer, of course, is that it depends on the factors you can find above.

But if you’re still unsure, the best thing to do is consult with experts. They can help you determine the best well drilling method, water well pump, and depth for your needs.

After all, you want to make sure your well is safe and will provide you with the water you need for years to come.

Need help with installation or servicing? Contact us today!

Are you looking for help with your residential water pump? Or commercial well pump? The Empire Pump team has been helping Arizona residents ensure they have reliable and safe well water since 1946! Give our team a call today at (623) 582-5069 or request service here.

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