When to use a Well Point?
- by: sssales
- August 6, 2020
- , 3:08 pm
- , How To
You may be interested in learning about well points and the parts you need to drive one in the ground. Perhaps, you may be considering options for a secondary water source for your yard or field. While only skimming the topic surface on metal well points, this article should clear up a couple terms, as well as lead you in the right direction to correctly assembling a drive well point, before you move on your project.
Are we talking about the same part?
Sometimes referred to as Sand Points, Drive Points or even Drive Well Points, well points are a great way to access water bearing soil up to 25′ feet in areas were the soil is mostly sandy or has light gravel. When paired with a drive cap, couplings, pitcher pump, or a shallow well jet pump, well points provide an effective localized long lasting system for your needs.
Caution: Before getting started it’s recommended to review your states health or DNR code. Many states/cities will have a resource book outlining aquifer, potable water, and install codes to follow along with helpful information on how to complete your job. I’ve included a few links here to help you get started.,
What are well points?
In simple terms, a well point is the pointed & perforated section of the pipe being driven. The well point is comprised of two sections, the screen and the point. Well points are designed to resist soil pressure, prevent clogging, all while allowing the best water flow. Depending on your water flow need well points are best used with 1.25″ to 2″ in diameter pipe. In special cases multiple well points may be driven down in series 8′ feet apart to help assure flow rate.
- Metal well points are made of galvanized pipe that have been wrapped with a layer of gauze screen (best stainless) of the desired fineness. The screen (often referred by a gauze fineness #, 80 being most common) is then protected from damage and clogging by a perforated stainless steel jacket. Both layers are often welded to the pipe.
What parts do I need?
When driving your points: protect the threaded ends on your well point. Use a drive cap when hammering to prevent flattening of the metal ends, which ruins the threads.
When linking your pipe together: use appropriate couplings. Use TPFE tape or TFE paste on all threaded joints to help assure prime. I have included a link to appropriate galvanized couplings below. Lastly select your water pump type. If manual access is all you need, a pitcher pump may do the trick. In the event you are looking for a more consistent flow for irrigation or live stock, consider a shallow well pump.
PARTS YOU’LL NEED:
