The decision to choose between a deep well and a dug well depends on many factors that every specialist should take into account. Nowadays, when the protection of the environment and natural resources is becoming more important, having your own water intake is an increasingly popular solution, especially in places where access to the water supply network is limited or expensive. An installer who undertakes the construction of such an intake must thoroughly understand the differences between both technologies in order to advise the client on the best solution.
Formalities and permits
One of the first aspects to pay attention to is the need to obtain appropriate permits for the construction of a well. In the case of a deep well, if its depth exceeds 30 meters or the expected water consumption is more than 5 m³ per day, a water permit is required. For a dug well, which usually reaches the first aquifer and does not exceed a depth of 15 meters, a notification to the commune is sufficient, which simplifies administrative procedures.
A dug well – simplicity and costs
Dug wells are popular due to their simple structure and lower construction costs compared to deep wells. They are an ideal solution in places where water is close to the surface. The main advantage of a dug well is that it is shallower and does not require advanced drilling equipment. The cost of performing one meter of excavation is approximately PLN 1,000, which makes this solution less economical for investors with a limited budget.
Dug wells use water from the primary aquifer, but this may involve a greater risk of contamination. It is also water that can dry up during periods of drought. Therefore, despite lower initial costs, dug wells are a less stable solution in the long run.
Deep well – stability and high water quality
Deep wells are a more advanced solution that allows you to obtain water from deeper aquifers. Water from such wells passes through many natural filters, which makes it cleaner and less susceptible to surface contaminants such as agricultural chemicals. Therefore, a deep well is an investment in high-quality water.
The cost of drilling a deep well ranges from PLN 100 to PLN 400 per meter, depending on the geological conditions. This is cheaper compared to excavation for dug wells, which may make the investment in a deep well more profitable in the long run.
Exploration of aquifers
When building a well, it is crucial to determine the location of the aquifer. Traditional methods such as dowsing, although popular in some circles, have no scientific support. Professional installers use modern geophysical methods, such as electrical resistivity probing or electrical resistivity tomography. Both methods allow you to precisely determine the location of aquifers, which minimizes the risk of investment failure. It is also worth consulting geological maps of Poland when planning an investment. Data collected and compiled by Polish Geological Institute, are reliable and proven.
The use of reliable submersible pumps
Regardless of whether we choose a dug or deep well, it is crucial to choose the right pump. In the case of deep wells, where the water table is below 8 meters, it is recommended to use deep well pumps. These pumps are able to operate in difficult conditions, providing constant access to clean water, even from a depth of several dozen meters.
Submersible pumps vary in efficiency, which allows them to be tailored to the specific needs of a given farm. The most popular models provide efficiency ranging from 30 to 100 liters per minute, which is sufficient for both single-family houses and larger farms.
