Sand point wells have specific drawbacks that can make them less suitable for certain applications compared to other well types. Based on the provided information, the primary disadvantages include limited water yield, higher maintenance needs for the pump, and issues with water quality and well longevity due to their reliance on natural ground conditions.
Here are the key disadvantages of using a sand point well:
- Limited Water Quantity: One of the major disadvantages is that a sand point well generally will not give large amounts of water. This makes them unsuitable for uses requiring significant water flow, such as irrigation for large gardens or supplying water to multiple fixtures simultaneously in a home.
- Increased Pump Maintenance: The pump used with a sand point well often requires more maintenance compared to a submersible pump typically used in deeper wells.
- Potential for Dirty Water: Sand point wells rely on the natural gradient of the ground material to draw water. Because of this dependence, the water can be dirty, potentially containing sediment or other impurities directly from the surrounding soil layers.
- Susceptibility to Clogging (Blanking Over): Also due to their reliance on the natural gradient and the ground material, sand point wells can "blank over" easier. This means the screen at the bottom of the point can become clogged with sand or sediment, restricting water flow and potentially requiring intervention to clear.
Understanding these disadvantages is crucial when deciding if a sand point well is the right choice for a particular location and water need.
