If you need access to a reliable source of clean water on your property, drilling a deep well is the best way to do it. Some homesteaders building on vacant land decide to rent a drill and drill their own wells instead of hiring a professional to do the job. However, this typically isn't the best option — drilling a well is best handled by professionals that have experience. Drilling a well improperly can lead to the water table becoming contaminated, and you may face fines if you don't follow all of the local regulations on well drilling. To learn three reasons why it's best to have a professional drill a well on your property instead of trying to do it on your own, read on.
1. You May Contaminate the Water Table Drilling Your Own Well
The biggest risk you face when drilling a well yourself is that you'll contaminate the local water table. If you drill a well too close to a septic system, bacteria like E. coli can enter into the well water. The purpose of a septic system's drain field is to filter out harmful bacteria from the effluent that leaves the septic tank. If the well is too close to the drain field, however, then there isn't enough time for the drain field to filter out the bacteria from the water reaching your well.
Bacteria in your well water can make you extremely ill if you drink it. Worse, you can also contaminate the water table that your neighbors rely on since the bacteria in your well can migrate through the bedrock and into their wells. A professional well drilling service will minimize the risk of contamination since they'll make sure to drill the well in an area that's far away from any sources of bacteria.
2. You Need to Follow Local Regulations When Drilling a Well
Due to the risk of improperly drilled wells contaminating the local water table, counties commonly regulate well drilling. You'll most likely need to obtain a permit in order to drill a well on your property, and you'll also need to record its location and depth once it has been drilled. Failing to follow the proper regulations when you're drilling your well can lead to you being fined by the county. Having a professional drill your well will ensure that all of the local regulations are followed correctly, which means you'll avoid the risk of being fined.
3. You're Less Likely to Find a Steady Water Source
Finally, it can be difficult to know where to drill a well unless you have a lot of experience. Finding groundwater can be difficult, especially if the water table in your area is very deep. Renting a drill and trying to drill your own well can result in you not finding any water at all, which means you'll waste money on the rental. Well drilling professionals will be familiar with the local area, which allows them to be more successful at drilling wells and finding a steady source of clean water.
Overall, trying to save money by drilling your own well isn't a good idea — the main problem is that you risk contaminating the water table for you and your neighbors if you don't place the well in a safe location. If you need a reliable source of water on your property, contact a professional well drilling service in your area and have them come inspect your property to find the best place to drill.
