What can I do if I am out of water?
If you are out of water, these are the things a homeowner can do on their own:
- Check for blown fuse – replace with new fuse of same kind and rating.
- Check for tripped breaker – reset the breaker.
- Check for plugged water filter – clean or replace the filter.
- Check for low (or no) water in the well.
- Check for water leaks.
How much does a well cost?
Every well is different. Depending on the diameter, depth, formation type, and construction of the well, there is a very wide range in potential cost. Every situation is unique, so specific information is required before a good estimate can be made. Give us a call, and tell us the details of your location and well needs, and we can work with you in creating the best water system for your needs.
How much does a pump/water system cost?
Again, every situation is unique. Depending on the depth, yield, water quality, and intended use, there is a wide range in the potential cost. Give us a call and tell us about your specific needs, and we can provide an accurate quote for pumps, pressure tanks, water lines, controllers, and just about any other component your water system may require. As a trained dealer for most quality manufacturers, we have many solutions for any water problem.
How deep will my well need to be?
Every potential well site is different. Generally speaking, in the greater Billings area, there are two potential sources for a well. A shallower gravel formation, or a deeper sandrock formation. In the Yellowstone Valley, there is a water bearing gravel formation somewhere between 20 and 150 feet. Further into the hills or on bluffs, you will need to go deeper. The sandrock formation usually lies between a few hundred feet to possibly over 1000 feet. American Drilling relies on a large body of experience (40+ years and countless wells), as well as access to the State database of all logged wells, to make informed decisions about the potential depth and viability of wells in our region of Montana and Northern Wyoming. Give us a call, and we will gladly share information with you about the viability of your site.
What is the difference between a 2-Wire and 3-Wire Pump?
A 2-Wire Pump was the motor controls located inside the motor housing. A 3-Wire Pump has an external control box to house control components (Capacitors, relays, etc.). The initial cost difference is minimal; 2-Wire pumps are more expensive than 3-Wire, but a 3-Wire also requires a control box to run, offsetting the difference. We prefer 3-Wire pumps, as they provide money savings for the customer through advantages in maintenance and serviceability.
If a control component fails, it can be replaced individually in the control box in a 3-Wire system. In a 2-Wire system, the pump must be pulled from the well, and the entire pump motor replaced. This adds significant labor and parts cost for the customer.
Should I utilize the services of a “Water Witcher”?
Everyone needs to keep in mind that Water Witching is not a science and is no guarantee of a well. Some people can make rods cross when encountering a water “vein”, however, the presence of some amount of water does not ensure a viable well. A well requires a water bearing formation that can be isolated and accessed by a sealed well casing. It takes knowledge and experience to effectively tap into a viable groundwater source. American Drilling relies on a large body of experience (40+ years and countless wells), as well as access to the State database of all logged wells, to make informed decisions about the potential depth and viability of wells in our region of Montana and Northern Wyoming. Give us a call, and we will gladly share information with you about the viability of your site. For the best assessments, please provide us with a full legal description of your potential site. (Township, Range, Section, and Quarter by Quarter) We do offer estimates on site at little or no cost to you.
Why is important that I have a good quality well cap? Why do I need one, and what features are present in a good cap?
A well cap is needed to prevent the intrusion of pests, insects, dust, and debris into the well. American Drilling uses a solid aluminum cap from Royer. The Royer cap utilizes mesh screened vents, and a double o-ring design. One o-ring between the casing and base of cap, and another o-ring between the base and top of cap.The o-rings and mesh screens provide the best seal and protection from insects and debris. In addition, the solid aluminum construction prevents rusting and fading, ensuring long lasting protection.
What are common problems I could face with a well and pump operated water system?
Please read the first Q and A – “What can I do if I am out of water?” if you have not already. That addresses the most basic issues, and provides potential solutions a homeowner can undertake on their own. The problems listed below should be addressed by a professional.
Common Problems facing a Well Owner
1) Repeated Run and Stop – This could be a sign of many different issues. It could be pump, controller, leaking check valve, or switch problems, in addition to others.
2) Low Pressure – This could signal pump problems, pressure switch or controller malfunction, water leaks, or other issues. Plugged or bad filters, or undersized water lines are also a possibility. Your water system may require a booster pump.
3) Bubbling or Air in Lines – A broken check valve or pressure tank losing air may be the problem. Also, some type of gas present in the water source itself may cause this issue.
4) Cycling (On and Off Rapidly) – This could signal some electrical or controller issue. A leaking pressure tank or bad check valve are also a possibility.
5) Sand in Water or Dirty Water – This could be caused by many different issues. A cycling pressure tank, or leak or break in a water line could be the problem. The well itself may have accumulated sand and need to be serviced via pumping or blown out with air.
6) Odor in Water – This problem may sometimes be noticed seasonally. An annual well sanitizer kit may be needed, or potentially water
treatment if the issue is sulphates or some other odor bearing compound in the water formation itself. Adding water treatment equipment may be required to solve the issue.
7) Broken Water Lines – If a water line becomes compromised between the well and the home, you will lose some or all of your pressure/water flow. This can be very serious, as the underground water loss can cause sinkholes or foundation damage.
8) Check Valve Failure – A failed check valve will allow water to flow backwards in the system. This could result in Run and Stop, Cycling, or Air in Lines.
9) Wire Shorts – A shorted wire connection (in the well/pump, in the buried cable, or in the home/control box) will result in intermittent or complete interruption of water service. A common problem that requires an electrical meter to diagnose.
10)Water Running Hot/Cold/Hot – Varying temperature or hot surges during toilet flush could signal many different issues. A failing pressure tank or undersized tank or pump are possibilities. Problems with check valves, filters, or water treatment equipment is also a possibility.
11) Bacteria in Well or House – May be as easy as a small amount of chlorine tablets (Well Sanitizer Kit), or adding a UV light.
12) Mice, Insects, Etc. in Well – You may have a failing or substandard well cap at your wellhead. A quality well cap with o-rings and mesh screened vents will eliminate these issues.
13) Intrusion of Surface Water and/or Contaminates into Well – A proper seal around the well casing from the surface to deep below the ground is need to prevent surface water from leaking down into the well. A good, continuous casing seal(grout), will eliminate surface contamination. We pay special attention to grouting our wells to ensure it meets or exceeds MT code. This is an extremely important part of well construction.
All of these issues should be diagnosed and addressed by a trained technician.
Give us a call, and we can send a qualified service technician to your location
Need Support?
Office# 406-652-4444
Emergency# 406-698-2601
E-Mail – amdrilling@live.com
