Wells have played a vital role in sustaining human beings’ water needs. They are used as one of the primary water sources for homes to draw water from when they do not have access to community water systems. Wells have always been envisioned to have generous resources of water, offering an ample supply.
But, do wells run out of water? Here’s a brief overview of factors that can deplete well water supply and more!
Do Wells Run Out Of Water?
Yes, wells can undoubtedly run out of water. This, however, does not happen overnight but is a gradual process.
There are different warning signs that you can watch out for concerning your well and the water quality it provides, indicating that the well is running out of water.
Your well may run out of water because of artificial reasons, natural causes, or a combination of both.
How Long Does It Take For Well Water To Run Out?
It can typically take weeks or even months before your well water runs out. Most wells seldom go completely dry.
Modern wells are constructed with greater depth than before and with materials that can withstand the usual wear and tear and other potential damages. So, if you can address the root cause of why your well has gone dry, you can mitigate it and won’t have to deal with it again.
If the reason is a natural phenomenon like drought, it is not permanent as rainfall will renew your water levels.
6 Reasons Your Well Has No Water
#1. A Drop In Water Level
Natural phenomena like drought can cause your well to have minimal to zero water. However, if there are multiple wells in your area, it can further deplete the water table.
For instance, if your neighbors installed additional wells for irrigation or other commercial purposes and you still have the same water requirements, this extra water allocation will cause your well to experience low water levels.
#2. Low Precipitation
The water in wells comes from different resources such as rain, snow, rainfall, hail, and drizzle.
If the amount of precipitation in your area is reduced, then you should expect your groundwater supply to be reduced as well. A prolonged decrease can then cause your well to dry up.
#3. Increased Water Consumption
Your water well can also dry up if your water use has increased but Mother Nature can’t keep up.
Wells produce the water you need at a certain speed. So, if your consumption is higher and faster than your groundwater’s production rate, then it won’t be able to keep up. You’ll always have less water until the well just can’t keep up with your water needs.
#4. Too Much Well Infill
Another reason your well can run dry is an excessive amount of accumulated minerals and loose sediments. This can cause a reduction in the water flow or even a complete standstill in your water production.
This is a common factor to look into, particularly if you have a large household with above-average use of cleaning utensils and excessive use of water for laundering, cleaning, and baths.
#5. Decreased Groundwater Recharge
Recharge is the amount of water supply from the earth’s surface into the groundwater system. While it may sound the same as precipitation, it is not.
Various factors influence all the water before and after it comes in contact with the ground and before it “recharges” your groundwater.
Here are some of the major factors impacting the water:
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Temperature
Higher temperatures cause increased evaporation and reduced groundwater recharge. If you are in hot, dry, or humid areas, you’ll need more rain for the water to seep through the soil.
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Evaporation
If the evaporation happening is quick and high, then there will be less water reaching the groundwater surface. The more the water is in close contact with the surface, the longer time for which it will evaporate.
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Wind Speed
Strong winds also increase evaporation, so there will be less water absorbed by the ground to be used for recharging. This same concept applies when you allow your clothes to dry naturally outside, so your clothes dry faster on a windy day than when there is no wind.
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Type of Soil
Sandy soil permits water to seep downwards faster, leading to a better recharge. Heavy or rocky clay soils, however, hold the water on the surface for a longer time. This causes natural evaporation and decreases recharge.
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Depth of Water Table
If the water table is shallow, it will lead to continuous water evaporation, which means less water goes into the groundwater system. A deeper water table will ensure greater water movement downwards and better recharging of the groundwater system.
#6. Waterline Leak
Waterline leaks can reduce the amount of water reaching your well and, if left unattended, can completely stop the water from flowing into your system.
These leaks can be difficult to locate, and most can go unnoticeable for years as they continuously deplete your underground water levels.
What Happens If Your Well Runs Out Of Water?
When your well runs out of water, you will be able to notice some visible signs. The water pressure will reduce significantly and you will find your faucets sputtering.
You may also notice changes in the color of the well water or see muddy water pumping through the line. Another major sign is a change in how the water tastes or smells. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to get your well water levels checked.
Will A Well Refill Itself?
Yes, a completely dried-out well can replenish itself after there is rain or once other water resources return to their regular supply.
However, if the reduced water level is because of your water usage, you can also make adjustments to manage your well’s water supply better.
If you use a submersible pump, lower your water pump as there is a possibility that the pump is set above your water’s current level.
You can also hydro fracture your well, specifically if your well’s water source is aquifers, as it will help remove blockages.
Or, you may deepen your well so it becomes more than 50 feet deep. Make sure you contact a professional drilling technician for this as it is a complex process that requires adhering to safety codes.
