FAQs

1) What’s the difference between the “Large Bore” DIY Water Well Kit and the “Small Bore” Water Well In A Box Kit?

The “Large Bore” DIY Water Well Kit is best suited for those who want a more versatile water well that can be used for emergency water, watering the yard, etc.. It is designed so that you can run our hand pump and a submersible electric pump in parallel. With this kit you’ll need to purchase 4 PVC pipe from the hardware store along with a few other misc. items. The “Small Bore” Water Well In A Box kit is an all inclusive kit where you don’t need to buy anything from the hardware store (unless you purchased the kit without the drill pipe). It’s advantage is that it is completely self-contained and can be used in a ‘bug-out” scenario. The downside is that you can not remove the hand pump once it’s installed and and you cannot install a submersible pump to water the lawn. Click here for a recap of the 5 Steps described in the ‘Large Bore’ Water Well video.

2) Will your auger work in bedrock very rocky soil?

Our auger works best in sandy or clay soil. It will drill through small rocks, but will not penetrate large rocks or bedrock formations. We are exploring techniques and equipment to tackle rock formations. The concepts for installation of the well are exactly the same however.

3) How deep will I need to drill for my DIY Water Well Kit to work?

Of course every area is unique, but most locations with shallow water tables have ground water within the first 30 feet. You’ll know you hit water bearing sand when your hole fills up with water while you’re drilling. You’ll be able to hear water splash when you lower your auger down into the hole.

4) What kind of permits will I need for my DIY Water Well Kit?

You’ll need to check your local city, county, HOA, etc. requirements for requirements in your specific area. In a lot of areas no permits are needed if you drill the well yourself on your own property. You may however need to notify the water authority once it’s installed. PLEASE, PLEASE ensure you know what is under your feet before you drill. Make sure there are no power or gas lines where you want to drill. And especially no septic tank. 😉

5) Is water from shallow wells safe to drink?

Every area is unique, however, shallow water drinking wells exist all over the country. Obviously a deeper well will have better water but in an emergency, most any kind of water will do. Especially if it’s boiled. Make sure you always test and treat your water before drinking.

6) Can I use this well to water my lawn or fill up my swimming pool?

7) Can you recap the 5 Steps mentioned in your “Large Bore” Water Well Kit video?

Step 1: Pick the Location

• Pick a suitable location for your well.
• Near a tree or other structure is beneficial.
• Hidden from view?
• Make sure you stay clear of gas, water or other utility lines.

Step 2: Drill the well

• Drill 7″ hole with modified Water Well Auger.
• Take note of the different types of soil you pull out.
• You’ll know when you hit water bearing sand.
• Dig at least 5′ into water bearing sand.

Step 3: Install Well Screen and Casing

• Preassemble well screen and PVC casing.
• Insert string of pipe into well.
• Leave at least 1′ of pipe sticking up.

Step 4: Pour the Gravel Pack

• Pour gravel down the space in between the hole and the pipe to build the Gravel Pack.
• The objective is to cover the area around the Well Screen.

Step 5: Fill in Hole and Pour Cement

• Take the cuttings (dirt from the well) and fill in the space around the 4” PVC casing.
• Pour cement around the head of the well to seal the well and prevent contamination.