In recent weeks, we’ve been working with customers whose wells are struggling to meet water demands, drilling deeper to improve water flow and drilling new wells for those affected by drying springs. As water conservation becomes more crucial in the face of low-yield wells, here are practical steps homeowners can take to reduce water waste and preserve their well’s efficiency.
1. Check Toilets for Leaks
One of the most common yet often overlooked water wasters is a leaky toilet. Even a small leak in the toilet flapper can result in the loss of 20 to 70 gallons of water per day. This adds significant strain on wells with limited yield. Homeowners can perform a simple dye test by adding food coloring to the toilet tank and waiting for 15–20 minutes without flushing. If color appears in the bowl, you likely have a leak that requires a replacement of the flapper or other internal components.
2. Monitor Hose Bibs and Outdoor Faucets
With the end of the gardening season, hose bibs and outdoor faucets are easy to overlook. However, these outdoor faucets can drip or be accidentally left slightly on, leading to water waste that, while small in summer, can become a burden on low-yield wells during drier months. Regularly check your hose bibs, ensuring they’re fully shut off and not leaking.
3. Inspect Water Treatment Equipment
Water treatment systems are essential for clean water but can be another source of waste if not working correctly. Damaged seals or leaks in the control head valves can cause water to drain continuously, potentially taxing both the well and the septic system. Regular maintenance and inspection can catch and resolve these issues early, helping conserve water and reduce pressure on your well.
4. Stagger Your Laundry and Other High-Water Uses
To ease the burden on your well, try to spread out high-water-usage tasks over several days. Doing all the laundry on a Saturday or Sunday can rapidly deplete your well, leaving you with no water and potentially causing a pump shut-off. Instead, plan to wash clothes in batches throughout the week. If you do experience a sudden shortage, one quick remedy is to turn off the well’s breaker for about an hour, allowing the well to recover before resuming normal usage.
Protecting Your Well with a Pump Saver
For those with low-yield wells, investing in a pump saver can be a game-changer. This device helps prevent the well pump from running dry and overheating, which can damage both the pump and piping. The pump saver works by sensing changes in the pump’s motor amperage; when a drop in water supply is detected, it temporarily shuts off the pump. Once a preset timer (usually around 50 minutes) elapses, the pump saver reactivates the pump, allowing water levels to stabilize before the operation resumes. This safety feature can help you manage your water supply without manually switching off breakers or risking damage to your well equipment.
More details about pump savers can be found in the Pentair Pump Protection Datasheet.
WELLZONE PRESSURE CONTROLLER => The WellZoneTM digital controller provides pressure control for single-phase 2-wire submersible well pump applications.
Partnering for Sustainable Water Use
At Kocher’s Geo Well Drilling, we’re committed to supporting our community through sustainable water solutions. We believe that, with small adjustments and the right equipment, you can make the most of your well’s water supply, reducing strain on your system and safeguarding against water shortages. Whether you’re looking for assistance with deeper well drilling or exploring water-saving options like a pump saver, our team is here to help.
As water resources grow scarcer, conservation is vital not only for sustaining your own well but for maintaining groundwater resources for everyone. Simple changes can make a big impact on your well’s longevity, ensuring that it continues to serve you even during dry seasons.
Contact Kocher’s Geo Well Drilling today to learn more about how we can help you enjoy the benefits of geothermal energy. Let us show you how easy it is to transform your home into an energy-efficient, environmentally friendly space you’ll love for years to come. Contact Us Today!
