Question 1

What is a well?

Accepted Answer

According to DNR code NR812 (the well code) "Well" means, any drill-hole or other excavation or opening deeper than it is wide that extends more than 10 feet below the ground surface constructed for the purpose of obtaining groundwater.

Question 2

Where does my well water come from?

Accepted Answer

Well water comes from either sand and gravel aquifer or a bedrock aquifer. Which aquifer your water comes from differs from area to area. Both aquifers can produce very high quality water.

Question 3

I currently have city water, will I notice a difference in a well?

Accepted Answer

No, your well and pumping system will be constructed to produce water that will rival the best city water. But you most likely will need a water softener or treatment to assure the highest quality water.

Question 4

How long does a well usually last?

Accepted Answer

Under normal conditions a well should last 50 years and a pump should last 7-10 years with some pumps lasting 25+ years. The variation is mainly due to the quality of water and amount of use.

Question 5

How do you know what the water quality will be before drilling?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately there are no guarantees with geology, but using our years of experience coupled with local knowledge we have a very good record of obtaining very good quality water in most areas.

Question 6

What is the cost of a well?

Accepted Answer

This varies greatly from geographic areas. A well and pumping system can range from $10,000 to $25,000. Certain areas of Winnebago and Outagamie Counties required additional well casing which drives the cost to the upper range.  We welcome your calls to obtain an exact estimate.

Question 7

Where should the well be on my property?

Accepted Answer

A well must meet certain separating distances from DNR code NR812. A well must be a minimum of 8 feet from your foundation, 25 feet from your holding tank, 50 feet from your septic field or mound. You should also keep your well accessible for future maintenance, such as a front yard or side yard.

Question 8

I've heard of arsenic problems with wells in Northern Wisconsin, what does that mean?

Accepted Answer

Winnebago and Outagamie Counties have elevated levels of naturally occurring arsenic in the upper layer of the St. Peter Sandstone. If this is left open to your well you are at risk to developing elevated levels of arsenic in your well. To combat this DNR mandated installing extra well casing and cement grout to block off this upper layer of bedrock. This extra protection has proven to be very effective at producing wells with very low or no levels of arsenic.

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