Cleaning a well with an air compressor involves using compressed air to break up sediment and debris at the bottom of the well and force it to the surface.
Here's how it's generally done:
-
Lower an air line into the well: A weighted air line (a pipe or hose connected to the air compressor) is lowered to the bottom of the well casing. The weight helps ensure the line stays submerged.
-
Apply compressed air: The air compressor is turned on, forcing air down the air line.
-
Agitate the water and sediment: The compressed air exiting the line creates turbulence and agitation at the bottom of the well. This action loosens and suspends sediment, silt, and other debris that have accumulated.
-
Pump or surge the well: The air, mixed with water and sediment, is then forced upwards, either continuously (pumping) or in bursts (surging). This process brings the dirty water to the surface.
-
Dispose of the dirty water: The water pumped out of the well will be dirty and should be directed away from the wellhead to prevent recontamination.
-
Repeat the process: The process is repeated until the water being pumped out becomes significantly clearer, indicating that most of the sediment has been removed.
Important Considerations:
- Well Construction: The type of well casing (e.g., steel, PVC) and its condition are crucial. Older or fragile casings can be damaged by high pressure. If your well uses a poor-quality plastic borehole lining, use a lower pressure cleaning method with an injector.
- Air Compressor Size: The size of the air compressor needed will depend on the depth and diameter of the well. A larger compressor is needed for deeper wells.
- Pressure: Avoid using excessive air pressure, which can damage the well casing or aquifer. Start with low pressure and gradually increase it as needed.
- Injector Cleaning (Lower Pressure Option): An injector uses a lower pressure to clean the well, which is important for wells with fragile casings. An injector introduces the air in a way that minimizes the risk of damage to the casing.
- Professional Assistance: For complex well cleaning situations, particularly those involving significant contamination or concerns about well integrity, it is always best to consult a qualified well professional. They can assess the situation, recommend the appropriate cleaning method, and perform the work safely and effectively.
- Water Quality Testing: After cleaning the well, it's crucial to have the water tested to ensure it meets drinking water standards.
