Attention Private Water Well Owners: Do You Know the Differences and Meaning of Flow Rate and Static Water Level?
It has been reported that in the United States today, water well owners account for over 40 million residents. The appeal of a private water well is rooted in a homeowner’s ability to have control over their own water – both in terms of usage and quality. Yet, a water well is dependent upon groundwater. Without the right amount, the supply of water is interrupted, and all sorts of convenience unfold.
Groundwater – which is the water under the ground – is impacted by many factors; among them are droughts and weather events. When weather conditions are harsh, water wells make their conditions very apparent, typically, the water well can become dry. For this reason, water well owners need to understand how to sustain a supply of quality, steady water. And, this begins by getting the water well periodically inspected by a professional in the water well business.
What does a professional water well expert assess when inspecting a well?
To get a good understanding of how healthy your well water is, professionals consider two main metrics – flow rate and static water level.
What is meant by flow rate and how does that affect a water well?
Flow rate is a metric that reveals the quantity and speed at which a water well pump. Flow rate is affected by many factors – all of which are external. Static water, which is explained below, is one of the primary factors.
Other factors that affect a water well’s flow rate are a pump that is not positioned correctly and pipes and drains that have become clogged. Likewise, clay and sand buildups and boulders that have become stuck in the drainage or pipe will negatively impact flow rate. When the types of obstructions occur, the pump gets pressure placed on it which translates to slower water pressure.
Take a look at these statistics to get a better picture. On average, a family of four in the U.S. consumes approximately 200 gallons of water. Doing laundry consumes anywhere from 27 to 51 gallons and washing dishes in a dishwasher uses a range of 5 to 14 gallons per load.
So, how do you figure out the flow rate you need in your home?
This is where a water well expert comes in. A professional will conduct an exam of your home and appliances as well as water fixtures. While tabulating the optimum flow rate for your household, your water well expert will consider every fixture and appliance you actively use. The calculated flow rate reflects the number of appliances and fixtures you have in or home. This is not exact; it is an estimated average.
Static water level means the measure of the health of your well. It is basically the level of water in the aquifer during conditions that are considered normal. Static water level changes seasonally and based upon weather events and seasonally.
Give Ries Well Drilling Inc a call to answer any questions you may have about static water level and flow rate. We can be reached at (586) 784-9516!
We provide Water Well Drilling Services in the following Michigan Counties: