Frequently Asked Questions

01.How long to drill a well?
The time it takes to drill a well depends on factors like the well's depth, the type of soil or rock, and the equipment used. On average, drilling a residential water well can take anywhere from a few days to a week. For deeper or more complex wells, such as those for oil or gas, the process can take several weeks to months. Unexpected issues, like hitting hard rock or equipment malfunctions, can also extend the drilling time.
02.What is the average cost of drilling a water well?
Prices vary according to conditions, with deeper wells and harder ground conditions increasing the price. Besides the footage costs, there are additional charges based on depth, location, local permits & regulations, pump installation, and water testing. Factors like the well diameter, casing material, and accessibility of the drilling site also influence the total cost.
03.What is hydrofracking a water well?
Hydrofracking a water well is a process used to increase water flow by expanding existing fractures in the bedrock around the well. High-pressure water is injected into the well to widen the fractures, allowing more water to enter the well from surrounding aquifers. It’s commonly used when a well has low yield or if the water flow decreases over time. Hydrofracking can significantly improve well performance, making it a cost-effective solution for enhancing water supply without drilling a new well.
04.What is the process of drilling a well
The process of drilling a water well begins with selecting an appropriate site based on geological surveys and permits. A drill rig is used to bore into the ground, often using a rotating drill bit and drilling fluid to cool the bit and remove cuttings. Once the desired depth is reached and water is found, casing is installed to line the well and prevent contaminants from entering. Finally, a well screen is placed at the water-producing zones, and a pump is installed to bring water to the surface for use.
05.What is an artesian well?
An artesian well is a type of well that taps into a confined aquifer where the water is under natural pressure. This pressure can cause water to rise above the level of the aquifer and sometimes flow to the surface without the need for a pump. Artesian wells occur when an aquifer is sandwiched between two impermeable layers of rock or clay, trapping the water under pressure. The natural pressure can make these wells a reliable source of water, especially in areas where pumping might be difficult or costly.
06.What is water witching or water dowsing?
Water witching, or water dowsing, is a practice used to locate underground water sources using a forked stick, rods, or pendulums. Practitioners, known as dowsers, walk over an area holding the dowsing tool, which moves or dips when water is detected below the surface. With a long history and popularity, the success of dowsing is often attributed to intuition, or subtle, unconscious movements by the dowser.
07.What is the success rate with seismo-electric testing?
Seismo-electric testing, which combines seismic and electrical methods to detect underground water, has a variable success rate depending on geological conditions and the expertise of the operators. Success rate can range from 60% to 90% in ideal conditions where the subsurface layers are well-defined and conductive to the method. However, in complex terrains or areas with heterogeneous rock formations, the accuracy may decrease significantly. While seismo-electric testing offers more precision than traditional methods like dowsing, it still requires skilled interpretation and may not guarantee water discovery in every case.
08.What is the wait time for your company?
Bud’s Water Wells is usually about 2 weeks’ wait time, however it varies depending on our company’s schedule, the season, and demand in your area. In busy seasons, such as spring and summer, the wait can be several weeks to a few months. Factors like weather conditions, permitting processes, and the complexity of the project can also affect scheduling. We advise booking well in advance to ensure your project is completed when needed
09.A new well was drilled in but not finished. What is your professional view on this?
Drilling a well but not finishing it can be caused by a variety of factors, such as market conditions or logistical constraints. The well may have been stopped at depth with no usable water or there may be water deeper, but it is not certain. Also, as the well casing is driven deeper, it is harder to move after it is left for a length of time.
010.Our well has corrosion. What do you advise?
If your well has corrosion, it's essential to assess the extent and type of corrosion immediately. We can put our camera down your well and provide you with an assessment of the level of damage. We recommend conducting a thorough inspection, including downhole imaging and material analysis, to determine the severity and potential impact on well integrity. Depending on the findings, you may need to implement corrosion mitigation strategies such as chemical treatments, corrosion-resistant materials, or protective coatings. Regular monitoring and maintenance should be prioritized to prevent further degradation and ensure the well's long-term viability.
011.What type of water treatment options do you recommend?
The recommended water treatment options depend on the specific contaminants present in the water. For general water quality improvement, options like filtration, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet (UV) disinfection are effective. If the water contains heavy metals or specific chemicals, ion exchange or activated carbon filtration might be necessary. It's crucial to conduct a detailed water analysis first to tailor the treatment solution to the water's unique characteristics.
012.What is the average cost to decommission a well?
The average cost to decommission a well can vary widely depending on factors like the well's depth, location, and the complexity of the decommissioning process. Typically, costs are lower for shallow, straightforward wells, and more for deeper or more complex wells. Additional factors such as environmental regulations, site remediation, and the presence of hazardous materials can significantly influence the total cost. It's essential to obtain a detailed estimate from a qualified contractor, considering all variables specific to your well
013.What is a solar pump?
A solar well pump is a water pump powered by solar energy, typically used in remote or off-grid locations where traditional power sources are unavailable or unreliable. It consists of photovoltaic panels that convert sunlight into electricity, which then powers the pump to draw water from a well. Solar pumps are environmentally friendly and cost-effective over time, as they reduce or eliminate the need for fuel or electricity from the grid. They are commonly used for irrigation, livestock watering, and providing potable water in rural areas.
014.What is flow testing on an existing well?
Flow testing on an existing well is a procedure used to measure the well's production capacity and the characteristics of the reservoir. During the test, water or oil is drawn from the well at a controlled rate, and the flow rate, pressure, and temperature are monitored over time. The data collected helps determine the well's efficiency, identify any issues like blockages or declining production, and inform decisions on well management or enhancement. Regular flow testing is crucial for optimizing well performance and ensuring long-term viability.
015.We have an emergency! Our pump has failed. What do you advise?
When a pump fails and becomes stuck in the well, the first step is to attempt to dislodge it using mechanical means, such as jarring or pulling with specialized retrieval tools. If these methods are unsuccessful, options may include using cutting or milling tools to sever the pump or tubing, allowing it to be retrieved in sections. In some cases, fishing operations may be required, involving more complex techniques to recover the stuck pump. If retrieval is not possible, sealing off the stuck equipment and drilling a new well may be necessary.
016.Is it possible to drill on offside road areas?
Yes, it is possible to drill in offside road areas, provided that adequate access can be established for the necessary equipment and personnel. The load restrictions are on the roads until the end of April. Then we can drive on side roads. Challenges such as difficult terrain, limited accessibility, and transportation of drilling machinery may arise and need to be carefully managed. Additionally, obtaining the required permits and adhering to local regulations is essential when drilling in these locations. Proper planning and logistical support, including the creation of temporary access paths or using specialized vehicles, can help ensure a successful drilling operation.