Dyer Well Drilling & Service,
Inc.
What
are typical water supply system components?
Casing: The casing is a tube in the ground that houses the well pump
and the pipe that moves water from the pump to the surface. It also
prevents the hole from collapsing, and keeps contaminants from
entering the water supply. Modern well casings are typically 5”
plastic (PVC) pipe.
Cap: The cap is the top of the well casing. The cap must end at
least one foot above ground so it is not subject to flooding. The
cap usually has a screened vent to prevent insects from entering the
well.
Pump: The well pump draws water up the hole and pushes it into the
home. The well pump is usually submersible. This means the pump is
installed in the well casing several feet below ground, making it
operate more quietly.
Pressure Tank: The pressure tank is usually a 3’-4’ tall cylinder
located in the home. It stores water and distributes it through the
home at an even pressure. The tank can also serve as additional
storage for low-yield wells. The pressure switch located at the tank
controls the pump’s on/off cycle.
Pitless Adapter: The pitless adapter is a plumbing fitting that
attaches to the well casing and routes the water supply line from
the pump to the home. It is installed approximately 4’ below ground
so it is not subject to freezing. Before these were invented, old
wells often terminated below ground in pits, or basement off-sets.
Pits are no longer necessary, hence the name “pitless adapter”.
Screen: The screen is at the very bottom of the well, attached to
the casing. It keeps sand and gravel out of the well while allowing
groundwater to flow into the well. Some wells drilled into bedrock
do not need screens since the water travels through crevices in the
rock, and there is no sand to filter out.
Dyer Well Drilling & Service can supply all of these components as well as custom equipment to meet every need.