Installing a new water well is an exciting experience, but success requires proper preparation and research into your water needs. New water wells offer clean, sustainable water for years to come, saving you time, money, and stress, all while keeping you and your family healthy. With your own well, you control your water source and eliminate dependence on municipal supply.

Continue reading to learn the top factors that North Florida Water Systems Inc considers when installing a new water well.

Water and Soil Conditions

Gainesville’s sandy soil is known for leaching nitrates from fertilizers, septic systems, and agricultural runoff, contaminating aquifers and other water sources in the process. Compared to clay soils, sandy soils are less effective at filtering, especially when heavy rainfall occurs.

Before choosing your water well site, test the soil and water for bacteria, nitrates, water hardness, iron, pH, and other contaminants. Ideally, you want to install your water well in a low-lying area that is as far away from septic systems or other potential contaminants as possible.

It is recommended to retest annually to ensure your drinking water is safe.

Location and Depth

Typically, North Central Florida wells range from 100 to 250 feet in depth to reach the Floridan Aquifer, which spans across multiple Southern states. The deeper you go, the lower the risk of surface pollution seeping into your drinking water. Even if your water well is in the best possible spot, filtration, softening, or disinfection systems may be necessary to provide the best water quality possible.

For those in North Central Florida, a general rule of thumb is that a well needs to be a minimum of 75 feet from all components of your septic system, including tanks, drain field/absorption areas, and distribution lines. Although 75 feet is the minimum, the farther away, the better.

Note: Sinkholes are common in Florida and can alter groundwater quality. Annual water testing is strongly recommended.

Well Materials

When installing a home well, it is vital to understand what materials your drinking water will come into contact with and to not cut corners on materials that could potentially leak into your water supply. Our well pump installation specialists use PVC well casings, which are rust- and corrosion-resistant. Perfect for naturally acidic groundwater, PVC is fine-tuned for North Central Florida’s unique conditions. In addition, PVC is lightweight and lasts up to 50 years with proper maintenance.

Before PVC, many companies used steel pipes, which can rust and potentially contaminate the water supply over time.

Pump Type

In North Central Florida, two types of pumps are used: submersible and jet pumps. Each acts in its own distinct way.

Submersible pumps are located deep in the well and push water up when needed. These pumps are more expensive, but use less energy, since they push water up instead of pulling it. As the name states, submersible pumps stay submerged in the well water to allow for better pressure and flow rates, and a quieter overall experience.

On the other hand, jet pumps are located above ground and pull water up from the well. Typically, jet pumps are the cheaper option and are easier to repair or replace, given the easy above-ground access.

Our well pump service can help you choose the best pump type for your specific water needs.

FAQs

What Is The Lifespan Of A New Water Well?

When installed correctly, new wells can last anywhere from 25 to 50 years. With proper maintenance and care, components may need to be replaced throughout the lifespan, as most pumps last five to eight years.

Do You Need Permits To Dig A Well In Gainesville, FL?

Yes, permits are required for wells that are greater than six inches in diameter in Alachua County. Our water well installation experts take care of the process for you, so you don’t have to deal with the headache.

How Long Does It Take To Drill A Well?

Depending on drilling conditions and weather, well installation can take one to two days. Drilling in the winter may take longer, since the ground is firmer.

Schedule Your New Water Well Installation Today!

With over 50 years of experience, North Florida Water Systems Inc can handle your new well installation. Our owner, Robert L. McMillan Sr., and his son Robert Jr., oversee the drilling of all wells to guarantee all work meets our high standards. Serving Alachua, Chiefland, Trenton, High Springs, Newberry, Fort White, and Gainesville, FL, we’ll take care of your North Central Florida water well installation. Contact us today to get started on your new water well!