Water well fracking, commonly known as hydrofracking, is a useful way to access water for a residential well. Read on to learn how hydrofracking works and when it might be a good option for your home well.
The Hydrofracking Water Well Process
Fracking is the process of injecting pressurized liquid underground to break up rock and access a subterranean resource. In the case of hydrofracking, pressurized water is pushed underground in order to access a new water supply.
Hydrofracking is often performed via an existing well shaft. A well contractor will measure the well pipe and the water level. Using this information, they’ll insert a tool called a packer to travel around 40 feet past the end of the pipe.
Next, they’ll inject pressurized, chlorinated water (about 1,000 gallons worth) to break up the rock below the pipe. This allows them to reach a deeper water supply. This process is often repeated a second time, with the packer traveling down about 100 more feet for a second blast.
After the first and second blasts, the well contractors will check the water pressure to see if the process is working. The pressure should significantly increase with each blast as the new water supply is accessed. More blasts can be executed if necessary, but two are usually enough to reach the desired water supply and pressure.
After the blasts are completed, the water well professionals will flush the well and reinstall the water pump. Ideally, they’ll let the well settle for about two days, and then return to check the water yield in order to ensure that the fracking process was successful.
When Do You Use Hydrofracking?
While a new well installation can use hydrofracking, this process is most often employed to improve the water supply for existing wells. You may want to consider hydrofracking if your flow rate is steadily going down or if your current water supply is close to drying up. Hydrofracking is also useful to address chronic low water pressure.
It’s advisable to work with well contractors to assess if hydrofracking is right for your well. This process may or may not be suitable depending on your well’s location. You should also check state and local regulations before planning any fracking work as many areas require that the work be completed by a licensed professional.
If you have questions about hydrofracking in Valatie or the region, call the team at Goold Wells & Pumps. With over 90 years of experience, our family-owned company offers comprehensive advising, installation, repair, and service for water well clients throughout the area. We provide regular and emergency service as well as free estimates. Call us today for help with all of your hydrofracking questions and needs. Goold Wells & Pumps—Trusted Name Since 1928.