Question 1

I need a well - What do I do?

Accepted Answer

Before attempting to have a well drilled, you should find out as much information about the area first. We have access to ALL well reports for wells drilled in Simcoe and area (as long as they have been recorded with the Ministry of Environment). The information from these reports will tell you if there is water available in that area, how deep the wells are likely to be, and in certain instances the chemistry of the water. The more information we have about the area the more accurate the drilling estimate can be.

Question 2

What happens first?

Accepted Answer

Once you have decided to have a well drilled, have the drilling company representative meet you at your property to pick a spot to drill the well to make sure the spot is accessible and to answer any questions you may have. The company representative will be able to answer question with regard to the well drilling act, safe distances to boundary lines, septic systems and sump holes.

Question 3

What happens after the well is drilled?

Accepted Answer

When a well is first drilled all that is noticeable is a somewhat muddy area with a piece of case pipe sticking up out of the ground about two feet. The next step is to call the backhoe (unless you have made prior arrangements with the drilling company) to come and dig the ditch from the well to the building. The ditch should be 3.5 to 4 feet deep and large enough for one man to work in.

Question 4

What about drilling through the basement wall?

Accepted Answer

We include the drilling and recementing of the wall in our pump package.

Question 5

Can I have a well drilled but not install a pump until later?

Accepted Answer

A well can be drilled and capped without a pumping system being installed for years. The average time span between having a well drilled and the pump installed in a new home is six to eight weeks, however the hook up can be performed the next day or the next year.

Question 6

Who is responsible for the mess in my yard?

Accepted Answer

Although we try to keep the mess to a minimum, there is always going to be some mud, ruts and cuttings after the well is drilled. The homeowner is responsible for the reclamation of the area after the well is drilled. A backhoe operator may be able to assist with this repair at the time the ditch is dug and backfilled for pump installation.

Question 7

What about the electrical connection?

Accepted Answer

Most submersible pumps use 230 volt power, a pump installer will be able to attach an existing wire that has already been run by a qualified electrician. However, if any adjustments to the power supply must be made we will suggest that a qualified electrician be called in.

Question 8

My well is dirty, What now?"

Accepted Answer

Every well when first drilled is dirty and contains mineral. Most wells will clear within a few days after hook-up and purging. The amount of time it takes for a well to clear varies depending upon the area and the amount of water obtained. The water in the well must be run slowly in order to purge the well, NEVER run a well wide open to try and clear it, you will only make it worse. We can be more specific on this question once your well has been drilled as each individual well is different.

Question 9

Am I going to require treatment?

Accepted Answer

When a well is first drilled it will automatically contain high mineral counts. As the well is used, over a period of time, the mineral counts will decrease. This process takes approximately six to eight weeks at which time the water chemistry should stabilize. We do not recommend that you make any type of treatment decisions before this time period is up.

FAQ About Well Drilling

I need a well - What do I do?

What happens first?

What happens after the well is drilled?

What about drilling through the basement wall?

Can I have a well drilled but not install a pump until later?

Who is responsible for the mess in my yard?

What about the electrical connection?

My well is dirty, What now?"

Am I going to require treatment?

FAQ About Water Treatment

My water stinks, what can it be?"

My clothes are strained and yellow, what can I do?"

I can't make a good cup of tea with my water!

What is the slime in my toilet tank?

I have black specs in my water, what are they?"

My kettle has a buildup and I have a bathtub ring!

What if I notice a greenish/blue stain on my faucets or copper pipe?

I have high blood pressure, can I still use treated water?"

What if I have bacteria in my water?