Introduction
Living independently off the grid often presents unique challenges, especially regarding access to dependable, clean water. Building a shallow well is an economical and effective way to establish a sustainable water source close to your homestead. This project is accessible to DIY enthusiasts and can be accomplished using simple tools available at local garden or hardware stores. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through each step of how to excavate and set up a functional shallow well from scratch. From selecting the optimal location with traditional dowsing techniques to installing the well components and sealing it properly, you’ll gain all the necessary knowledge to create your own reliable water supply.
STEP 1 : MATERIALS REQUIRED
Embarking on a shallow well project requires gathering specific materials that are essential for successful completion. The cornerstone of this setup is a customized Seymour AUA2 Post Auger, a specialized digging tool designed to penetrate various soil types efficiently. Its sturdy construction allows for deeper and wider excavation, which is crucial for well construction. Alongside the auger, a durable shovel is needed for removing loosened soil and gravel. To line the well, you’ll require a four-inch diameter PVC pipe, which acts as the casing that maintains the well’s integrity and prevents collapse. The length of this pipe depends on your specific water table depth. To connect the pipe to the pump system, a one and one-quarter inch threaded adapter is necessary. Furthermore, a one and one-quarter inch foot valve ensures water flows into the pipe efficiently while preventing backflow, keeping your system primed and ready for use.
STEP 2 : FINDING THE WELL SPOT
Locating the ideal site for your well is critical for optimal water yield and quality. In this process, we employ a traditional method called dowsing, which utilizes simple tools like coat hangers to detect underground water sources. Prepare two coat hangers by attaching drinking straws at the ends, allowing them to swing freely without interference from your grip. Hold the rods parallel to the ground and walk slowly over the area where you plan to dig. When the rods cross or react, it indicates a potential water-rich zone. Mark this spot clearly on the ground to serve as the foundation for your excavation.
Note: The effectiveness of dowsing varies among individuals, but it remains a popular traditional method for preliminary water source identification.
For digging, modify your Seymour AUA2 Post Auger to enhance its reach and durability. This involves welding a 5-foot 11-gauge square tubing extension for the auger, enabling deeper excavation. The handle is also customized by welding a 3-foot 3¾-inch pipe onto a 4-inch 11-gauge square tubing. These modifications provide increased leverage and strength, facilitating efficient digging through soil and clay layers.
During excavation, pay close attention to soil color changes—particularly sand hues—which can signal proximity to water. Upon reaching wet clay layers, the auger’s suction becomes noticeably stronger. To extract the auger, twist and pull simultaneously, ensuring minimal soil disturbance. Use the shovel to clear out loosened soil and gravel, maintaining a clean well shaft. Adjust the depth according to your water table, keeping in mind that deeper wells hold more water but require more effort to excavate.
STEP 3 : INSTALLING THE PVC WELL PIPE
Once you’ve successfully excavated the hole and pinpointed the water-rich zone, proceed with installing the well casing. Insert a 1⅛-inch PVC pipe into the borehole to serve as the primary conduit for water extraction. The pipe’s length should be slightly less than the total depth of your well—ideally, by at least one foot—to avoid sediment accumulation and ensure smooth water flow. Next, lower a 20-foot PVC casing pipe into the well, making sure it fits snugly and remains centered.
To facilitate water entry and prevent sediment intrusion, cut slots along the pipe using a reciprocating saw, starting about one foot from the bottom and extending up to the water level. Fill the space surrounding the casing with pea gravel, pressing it firmly around the pipe to create a natural filter and prevent sediment ingress. This gravel bed ensures clear water flow into the pipe while stabilizing the well structure.
STEP 4 : INSERTING THE PIPE WITH FOOT VALVE AND MOUNTING THE PITCHER PUMP
With the casing installed, introduce the well pump pipe—a one and one-quarter inch pipe fitted with a foot valve at its lower end. Carefully lower this pipe into the casing, ensuring the foot valve sits just above the gravel bed to allow efficient water intake. Secure a four-inch drain flange atop the casing pipe to facilitate sealing and maintenance.
Next, set up the pitcher pump. Its design includes a one and one-quarter-inch threaded water inlet compatible with your pump pipe. Use a closet flange to mount the pump securely onto the top of the casing pipe, providing stability and ease of access. Connect the pump to the pipe using a threaded adapter, sealing the joint with Teflon tape and PVC cement for a leak-proof connection.
To ensure the system functions properly, prime the pump by pouring clean water into the pitcher. Pump repeatedly until the water runs clear, indicating the well is ready for use. This process also helps remove any trapped air and ensures consistent water flow.
STEP 5 : ADDING PEA GRAVEL AND SEALING THE WELL
Surround the PVC casing pipe with additional pea gravel, filling the space up to the slots. This gravel layer acts as a natural filter, preventing sediment from entering the well while promoting unobstructed water flow. The amount of gravel needed depends on the well’s depth and water level; pack it firmly, leaving no gaps to guarantee a tight seal.
Once the gravel is in place, cap the top of the well with a layer of Quikrete or an aerated concrete mix. This creates a watertight seal, safeguarding the water from surface contamination, small animals, and insects. Ensure the concrete is level with the surrounding ground to prevent water seepage.
Fill any remaining space around the casing with a mixture of sand and clay to stabilize the well structure. Finally, use quick-set cement along the sides of the casing to further seal the area and direct water away from the well, protecting it from external pollutants. Once the sealing compounds have fully cured, your shallow well is ready to supply clean, fresh water for your off-grid homestead.