11190219-henrydrillingandpump

Which Water Filtration System Is Right for Your Home?

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 06:23:00 GMT

The water in your home should be clean and ready to use, and if you have water that needs filtration, you’ll need to decide between a whole house filter system, a smaller single point filter, or some other system. When you work with a filtration company, they offer you the advantage of an expert to help you choose the right filtration system for your needs.

Identify the Contaminants

Before you can filter the contaminants from the water in your home, you need to identify what is in the water. The simplest way to do that is to have a water test on the tap water coming into your home. If you are on well water, you expect it to be cleaner than city water, but a complete test is the only way to be sure.

The results of the water test will break down all of the contaminants for you. If you do not understand the results of the test, the company that did the test can help you. They can break down the results and show you what minerals, chemicals, and other things need to be filtered out of your water.

Contaminates to Filter

Many of the contaminates in your well water can cause the water to taste bad or smell bad, so filtration for those things is essential. Some of the contaminants that the water test uncovers may be worse than others but take the time to go over the entire list and identify the things that need removing from the water.

Bacteria

Bacteria in the water does not always taste bad, but it is always something that the filter should remove. If you have a well, you face the possibility that bacteria can grow in the water without you knowing it, so the best prevention is to install a filter that will remove it before the water comes into the house.

Heavy Metals

Lead, iron, and other heavy metals in your water can be a big problem. You should test for and address heavy metals, and even if the water test indicates small amounts of metal in the water, you’ll want to ensure that the filter system addresses it.

Water Filtration Types

Homeowners can find many different water filtration systems on the market, but a few options are especially worth your time.

Point of Use Filters

A point of use filter is one that is located on the outlet of the water source. They are typically made using charcoal filtration cartridges. The idea with these filters is to clean the drinking water but not to filter water to the rest of the house. If all you want to filter are contaminants that cause flavor issues or are not healthy to consume, these filters may be just right for your home.

Whole House Filter Systems

A whole house water filtration system filters the water coming into the house from the main line. The water in every part of the house gets the same treatment and the system is much larger. The system may use charcoal, sand, and salts to remove contaminants as the water passes through the system and into the home. Whole house systems are a great option for homes that get water from a well or spring.

At Henry Drilling LLC , we can test your water and help you set up a water filtration system specifically for your home and your water. We will design the system to filter the things that need removing from your water but can also add preventative measures to the system. Give us a call today so we can discuss your needs and get your system up and running right away.

4 Reasons to Tap Into Your Underground Water Tanks

Tue, 11 Jun 2019 03:10:00 GMT

Access to clean water is important every day. Reliable water sources supply consistent water to homes. However, there might be a time you turn on your faucet and nothing comes out, or the water is visibly dirty and foul-smelling. When you rely on clean water daily, it's good to have various options that provide a flow of clean, drinkable water.

Underground water storage tanks can store water beneath your property when pure, life-sustaining water is needed most. Here are four reasons you'll be grateful to tap into your underground water storage tanks.

1. If Your Well Cannot Supply Water

A well is a solid source of clean water for your home, but sometimes a well is unable to provide clean water. Fluctuating ground water levels make a well unreliable. Contamination makes the water undrinkable until the well is cleaned. Or, water could be within reach but the well pump breaks down and you cannot access your water.

You'll need an alternate water source immediately if your well can no longer supply necessary water. Water storage tanks installed below ground store potable water for you and your family. Water remains clean because common well contaminants from sewage, minerals, and run-off are unable to penetrate the sealed tanks.

2. When City Water Is Not Available

There are many reasons city water becomes unavailable or off-limits. A municipality must shut off water or order a boil order when it experiences serious contamination issues. Lead water pipes can poison water such as the case in Flint, Michigan. Accidents that break a water main or fire hydrant cause a dramatic drop in water pressure that can temporarily deny residents water.

Having an underground water tank during any of those time will ensure you are able to maintain access to clean water.

3. During a Drought

Long periods of dry weather can occur, but extended months of heat and no rainfall can spell trouble for residents that rely on well or city water. Depending on the severity of drought in your area, water may be increasingly taxed, rationed, or completely undrinkable due to extreme drought conditions.

Your water storage tanks can hold as much water as you choose to store. Simply decide how much space on your property is available for storage and choose the appropriate number of tanks you want to store and fill.

4. After a Flood

Ironically, a flood is a major cause of water service disruption and contamination. Flooding accounts for 40% of natural disasters which makes having a back-up water source even more important. Floodwaters increase sewage and chemical contamination of drinking water and can damage municipal water facilities. Water may be clean, but flood waters could have damaged or destroyed key pumping station components.

Your well is just as vulnerable to flood damage as any other structure. Floodwaters infiltrate your well and introduce contaminants. Floodwaters are capable of reaching electrical mechanisms of the well pump and interfere with your ability to pump water.

Water storage tanks are sealed beneath the ground where floodwaters may penetrate but cannot enter and cause contamination.

It's important to note the role bottled water plays in emergencies. Bottled water is a good source of clean water after a disaster when city or well water is unavailable. However, it's still a wise idea to own underground water storage tanks for such times instead and have your own access to fresh water.

Storage tanks take away the need to purchase and stockpile water bottles, and you don't need to worry about the environmental impacts of many empty plastic bottles.

Henry Drilling LLC wants to be a part of your efforts to remain self-sustaining when clean drinking water is no longer available. Give us a call for more information about how underground water storage tanks fit beneath your property.

Bring Your Old Pond Back to Life

Tue, 07 May 2019 14:20:00 GMT

Does your property have an old pond? Ponds and other water features are naturally soothing and can be a great benefit to the overall landscape. But if your pond hasn't been cared for in a number of years, you have some work to do in order to bring it to life again."

What should you do to revitalize your old pond? Here are a few steps to take.

Inspect

The first step to restoring just about anything is to find out what the current condition is. Get up close to your pond, starting at the edges. What problems does it have — overgrown weeds, lack of irrigation, or debris in the water? What systems may still be intact? You may want to climb into the pond if it's low and assess how deep it is and how the edges appear. Is there a pond liner? Finally, check for pumps and drainage.

Aerate

Aeration is vital for any water feature, particularly if you want to bring in fish or other wildlife and keep out insects. You'll need to get a water pump working or installed to get the ball rolling. Aeration will help with future tasks like removing debris or oil, getting rid of insects, and circulating positive organics.

If a significant build-up of silt is under the pond, or if you think you'll be changing the shape of the pond, opt for a larger pump than you might need for the current size. Stronger pumps can work for smaller areas, but if you get a pump that's too small, it'll never be sufficient.

Dig Out

Think about the water levels and shore shapes. The water level is generally determined by what you want to do with the pond. If you want to add fish, for instance, you generally need a pond that's deeper than two feet. If you have pets and want them to enjoy the water, the pond may need to be customized to the pet sizes. If, instead, you don't want to risk pets or kids around the water, a shallow water feature is probably better.

If a lot of debris and soil has washed into the pond over the years, you may be able to dredge the bottom to remove the excess. This digging could be a DIY job, but you may need bigger equipment if there's a lot to remove or if the debris includes rocks.

Remove Debris

Now you're ready to start removing the debris that's probably clogging the pond. Most old ponds become overgrown around the edges, so start by removing weeds by hand or with gardening tools. Avoid chemicals that could seep into the water or soil around the water. Climb inside the pond and clear unwanted plants growing in the pond itself. You'll probably want to remove at least one-third of greenery.

When you're done, use a burlap sack or pool skimmer to rake over the surface and sweep up scum and debris. You may need to do this a number of times as the pond heals itself.

Maintain

Once you've cleared out the old damage, you'll have to work a little extra to bring the pond back to health. Look for a pond care package that includes materials to kill algae and introduce helpful bacteria to the water. Install water plants to beautify the space as well as to encourage good insects and small wildlife.

Keep in mind that the pond didn't become a mess in one day, and it will take more than one day to get it back into shape. This will be a long-term — but rewarding — task. For more help assessing your pond's current situation and how you can get started cleaning it up, contact Henry Drilling . With years of experience working with aeration and pumps, we can help you restore any water feature today.

3 Indications of Well Pump Problems You Need to Know

Tue, 09 Apr 2019 14:24:00 GMT

Well water keeps your home's water supply independent of the city's water system. But whether you've recently bought a home that's on well water or you had a well drilled on your property, remember that the well and pump are not infallible.

Familiarize yourself with the signs of trouble so you can address problems as they arise. The more proactive you are, the easier it is to maintain your water supply. Here are a few of the things you need to watch for and tips to resolve those problems.

1. Reduction in Your Water Pressure

The water supply from your well should flow at a fairly consistent pressure level. A sudden drop in water pressure across all of your fixtures could indicate that your well pump is failing. As a well pump ages, the wear and tear on the pump itself can cause that pump to run less efficiently reduce the flow of water to your fixtures.

Your well pump installation contractor will inspect the pump, repair any worn components, or replace the pump with a new, properly functioning unit. Contact your well contractor right away when you notice the lower water pressure. The sooner the problem is addressed, the less risk you'll have of complete pump failure and lack of water.

Reduced water pressure in only one fixture, however, is usually a sign that a broken pipe or damaged fixture is causing a leak somewhere between that fixture and the main inbound water line. If this is the case, you'll need to talk with a plumber who can trace the problem back.

2. Sputtering Water Flow

When you turn on the faucets, the water flow should be smooth. Sputtering, splashing water from the faucet, even briefly, often means that air is in the pipes or coming into your well pump. Intermittent sputtering is not normally a cause for concern, but prolonged or persistent problems with it mean that you should have your well pump examined.

Not only can air in the system be indicative of your well pump needing to be purged and re-primed, it could also be an indication that the well itself is low on water. When the water level gets low, the well pump will draw air in as well as water, leading to the sputtering at your water fixtures.

Your well-drilling and -pump manufacturer should inspect the water level in the well and test the pump to resolve this. He or she can purge the air out of the system and then re-prime the pump to eliminate the air pockets.

An odor present in the water indicates that the sputtering is the result of gas pockets, such as methane. Contact your well company immediately in this case, as those gases could prove dangerous to your family's well-being.

3. Dirty Water Flow

Many people assume that dirt is just a fact of life in well water. The truth is that you should not be seeing dirt in your well water at all. A pump drawing dirt in with the water may be placed too far into the well or could have insufficient water reserves.

Dirt in your well water can be heavily damaging to the pump. The dirt in the water is flowing through the pump, leading to dirt settling in the pump itself. Those particles can cause severe wear on the delicate parts inside the pump, ultimately causing it to fail.

Maintain your well and pump consistently from the time that you move into the house or have the well drilled. This is essential, and knowing the signs of well problems helps you to do this. With the information here and the help of a reliable well drilling and maintenance company, you can do just that. For more information, contact a company like Henry Drilling . We would be happy to help!

5 Things to Know When Buying a Home With a Well

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 14:29:00 GMT

Owning a well is very different from using a community water source. If you're thinking about buying a home with a well and have little or no experience with private well water, you have a few things to learn. Understanding the maintenance expectations and testing the well before you purchase the home can help you decide whether a home with a well is right for you.

1. Risk for Contamination Is Higher for Dug (Non-Drilled) Wells

A long time ago, most people dug their wells by hand. Two people could dig a well together, with one person positioned in the hole and the other person hauling the soil to the surface. Not many wells are dug like this anymore, but dug wells still exist in some older homes. These wells are also known as shallow wells because the method of construction limits the depth of the well.

Today, drilled wells are far more common. Dug wells are relatively easy to identify by the hole in the ground, often protected by a cover to prevent someone from falling in. Drilled wells have no hole but instead have a pipe protruding from the surface of the soil.

Dug wells are at risk for contamination because water runoff from the surface can fall into the well. This is not the case with drilled wells because the water source is protected by the earth. If the home you're thinking about buying has a dug well, get a price quote for having a well drilled on the property.

2. Well Inspections Are Critical

Many home inspectors do not inspect wells for functionality. Some home inspectors will test water and inspect a septic system for an extra fee, but in most cases, you'll need to hire an outside professional to inspect the state of the well. Contact a knowledgeable and trustworthy well contractor to find out whether the well is running properly.

Buying a home without getting a well inspection could put you at risk for making an expensive repair after moving in. Do not attempt to perform the well inspection yourself unless you're a trained expert.

3. Water Testing Protects Members of Your Household

Groundwater is subject to contamination. Testing well water before going through with the home purchase helps you ensure that the water in the well is not contaminated.

Common sources of contamination in wells include bacteria from nearby septic tanks, pesticides, barnyard waste, and fertilizers. If the home you're thinking about buying is near farms, pesticides and fertilizers may be a big concern.

Have the water tested to find out whether it is contaminated and what you can do about the problem if this is an issue. Your well inspector can discuss possibilities.

4. Well Maintenance Is Critical After You Buy

Once you move into the home, perform yearly maintenance on your well to ensure that it continues to function properly. You'll be responsible for your own water supply, so if you don't keep up with maintenance, you could find yourself in a home without a water supply. Have your well maintenance company come out at least once annually for a tune-up.

5. Well Water Must Be Protected

Protecting your soil from pollution will help protect your groundwater from contamination. Once you move into the house, you can start protecting your water supply right away. Keep up with septic tank maintenance, and avoid using pesticides and toxins near the well. Have your water tested on a regular basis to ensure that the water continues to be safe to drink.

At Henry Drilling LLC, we're happy to answer any questions you might have about maintaining your well or owning a home with a well. Call us today to find out more information about your upcoming responsibilities as a well owner.

Landscaping and Your Well or Underground Water Tank

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 14:32:00 GMT

Whether you have a small plot of land or a large property, you want your residence to look its best. Curb appeal comes at least partially from landscaping. However, sometimes water usage is a problem, which can affect your landscaping abilities. A groundwater well and/or underground storage tank may be the solution.

Basics of Groundwater Drilling

Two basic methods exist for creating a well. One method is driving a well, which consists of pounding lengths of pipe into the ground to create the well. The other method is drilling, which consists of driving a rotating bit into the ground. Drilling is the method most professionals use.

With either method, the goal is to reach the underground aquifer, which is permeable rock that contains groundwater. A pump brings the water from the aquifer to the surface, where you can use it for any water-based purpose, such as irrigating your landscaping.

Benefits of Using Well Water

Using well water over city ordinance water carries many benefits. Naturally, one of the biggest benefits is cost. You have to pay for city water. With well water, you pay for the groundwater drilling. After that up-front cost, the pumping cost is usually low.

A well is usually viewed as an environmentally friendly method of irrigation. City ordinance water typically comes from surface water, which succumbs to evaporation over time. Groundwater isn't susceptible to evaporation. What's more, groundwater is less susceptible to contamination than surface water, which is better for your landscaping plants.

City ordinance water is also susceptible to restrictions. The city may put a cap on how much irrigation water you're allocated even if you're willing to pay more. However, you don't have an artificially imposed cap on how much groundwater you can use. Naturally, you should still practice conservation, but at least you can use as much water as you need for your landscaping.

Benefits of Underground Water Tanks

In that vein, another method of ensuring you have enough groundwater for irrigation is to have an underground water storage tank installed. In a way, such tanks are like your own personal aquifer. You can determine where it's located and how much water it supplies. So you can feel free to use it for irrigation when needed.

Water tanks are one way of harvesting and storing rainwater. Indeed, some homeowners purposely combine a rainwater harvesting system with a large storage tank. By storing the tank underground, you garner the same benefits as with an aquifer — reducing the risks of contamination and evaporation.

Some properties feature water tanks that are aboveground. However, some homeowners don't favor the look of the tank itself. By having it sunk into the ground, not only do you have remove the tank from view, but you free up usable space on your property.

Methods for Using Groundwater and Underground Tanks for Landscaping

When you have a well installed on your property, you can use the water for any purpose, including landscaping. In other words, you can maintain beautiful landscaping no matter the weather conditions in the summer.

While you can simply hook up a sprinkler system to your well or underground tank, this may not utilize your water wisely. With pumps, you need to consider how many gallons per minute the well can provide and how much usable pressure your well can provide. In some cases, you may need a separate well for a sprinkler system.

An even better method is to consider a drip irrigation system. Such systems either feature a grid construction, in which the water irrigates a full expanse of ground evenly, or point source, in which the water irrigates individual plants. Either way, you use far less water than with a traditional sprinkler system, which helps preserve your groundwater or tank supply.

Utilize well water and harvested rain water to create a beautiful landscape in your yard. Contact Henry Drilling LLC for groundwater drilling or underground tank installation.

A Well Owner's Guide to Water Pump Priming

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 14:37:00 GMT

If you turn on the tap at your kitchen sink and no water comes out of the spout, your pump may have lost its prime. Check to ensure your pump's circuit breaker hasn't tripped and caused the well to lose power.

If the pump's breaker isn't tripped, you may need to prime your pump to make the water start flowing again. Prime pumping is simply adding water to the fill valve. Here's what you need to know to prime your pump the right way.

Causes of Pump Losing Prime

Your well pump and intake lines must be full of water for suction to happen. If there's no water in the line, air gaps cause suction to stop. Your well pump begins cycling air instead of water.

Well pumps can lose their prime for several reasons. If your well water level is too low, you may have pulled too much water from the system. There isn't enough water in the well to be drawn up by the pump.

Other causes of well pump prime loss include the following:

A leak somewhere in water lines
Failure of check valves
Air gaps in intake pipes
Drawdown from hose or tap left running

During a power outage, household members may drain all of the water out of the plumbing lines. This will also cause the pump to lose its prime.

Shut off Power to the Pump

Water and electricity don't mix. Your well pump operates with high voltage, so shut off the breaker to your pump before adding water to the system. Use insulated tools to remove the fill valve plug from your well pump.

Every pump system has a pressure switch. The switch is covered by a small black or gray box. Most pressure switch boxes are watertight, but you should be especially careful not to spill water on or near your pressure switch box. Cover the pressure switch with plastic if it's located very close to the fill valve, but remove the plastic protection before you restart the pump.

Check the Taps

All of your plumbing system's lines must be shut tight to maintain pressure when priming the pump. If a tap is left open during priming, the water you add to the pump will just flow out of the system.

Since there may be a small amount of water in the pump when you open the fill valve, it may spurt on you or your pressure switch. Before priming the pump, open a tap for a moment to let some of the water out of the lines. Close the tap before you prime the pump.

Use Clean Water

Prime your pump with the cleanest water you can find. In an emergency, you may have to use pond or stream water, but the water may contain sediments that could harm the pump. It's wise to keep a few gallons of clean water on hand strictly for priming purposes.

Purchase water at the store or ask a neighbor for potable water if possible. Use water from your toilet tanks or water heater (let water cool before priming) if they still contain water.

Use a Funnel

Fill valves on pumps are notoriously small. Use a funnel to add water to the pump. Take your time to avoid spilling water on the pressure switch or other electrical components in the well house.

When the water rises to the top of the fill valve, replace the plug and restore power to the pump. If the pump still doesn't produce enough water pressure, turn off the power and repeat the process. It may take several priming attempts before the lines contain enough water to develop suction.

When there's a leak in your pipes or other problems in your system, priming won't restore your water flow. Hire a well-pump repair specialist to help you get your pump running again.

If you can't restore the prime to your well pump , contact Henry Plumbing LLC today and schedule an inspection of your pump and pipes. We have 70 years of experience servicing water pumps and wells.

What to Know When Drilling a Water Well for Livestock Use

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 14:47:00 GMT

While Tennessee may be known more often for music than the mooing of cattle, the state is still a formidable producer of livestock. In fact, according to state government statistics, approximately 44 percent of the state is currently covered in agricultural land. Since farming activities are nearly always done on rural land, public water supplies are rarely able to provide the fresh water needs of these animals.

Tennessee farmers and livestock producers have an advantage over those in other, more arid states, however, because underground aquifers are numerous and easily accessed through water well drilling.

If you are prepping rural land for the addition of livestock or just need a more optimal water source for your farming activities, here are some important reasons to consider drilling a water well to fulfill your needs.

LABOR SAVINGS

For those who have been hauling water to their livestock each day or constantly having to check pond levels in summer and cut ice so their animals can drink in winter, the daily expenses of watering livestock can really add up.

While the initial cost of drilling a water well can be a significant expense, the fact that livestock producers no longer have to expend the time, labor, or vehicle usage costs to haul water or check ponds each day is able to quickly offset this expense.

WELL LOCATION

A water well for agricultural use works best and is most economical when it is located in the area in which the water is needed. The first reason for this is that water pressure can be reduced if the pipes from the well to the livestock watering area are too long. This excess length can lead to problems with keeping the tank full for the animals to drink, especially when supplying a large number of livestock.

In order to locate agricultural water wells where they will be most conveniently accessed, livestock producers may want to also install a small, freestanding solar panel and battery backup array at the site of each well.

In addition to saving money on pipes by placing the well near its usage point, livestock producers will also save on the cost of installing underground electrical lines to power the well and eliminate the monthly power bill.

SOLAR POWER

Depending on the location of the well, utility companies can charge thousands of dollars to run power to it. If the terrain is hilly or difficult, as much of Tennessee is, the costs can be even greater.

The Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), a division of the United States Department of Agriculture, has a cost-share program that may provide some help to Tennessee livestock producers who want to invest in the installation of solar power for the operation of their livestock water wells.

WATER QUALITY

With both hot summers and cold winters, livestock produced in The Volunteer State experiences some weather-related challenges. Animals that willingly drink plenty of water in all types of weather are known to stay better hydrated and be more able to thrive in challenging weather conditions.

Studies show that livestock offered fresh, clean water from a dependable water source will consistently consume the amounts needed to retain their health. This leads to higher carcass weights for beef and better milk production for dairy animals and livestock that are nursing their young.

A water well that is equipped with solar power to power both the pump and a freeze-proof water tank is an optimal way to provide a dependable supply of fresh, clean water no matter the season or the temperature.

At Henry Drilling LLC , our water well professionals are ready to answer your questions about livestock water wells and help you understand the benefits for both you and your livestock.

Going off the Grid? 6 Reasons You Need a Pond

Wed, 14 Nov 2018 14:56:00 GMT

If you own a small homestead that you intend to keep off the grid, you’ll want to consider adding at least one pond to your property. When most people think of ponds, they think of the aesthetic value, or how the addition will improve the appearance of their property. However, when you're off the grid, your pond becomes a crucial part of your homestead. Here are just five vital benefits a pond will provide you and your family when you live off the grid.

1. Emergency Water Supply

When you live off the grid, you need access to an adequate water supply. Even if you receive your water from a well, you still need an emergency supply in case the well runs dry or malfunctions. Ponds provide additional water for animal and human consumption, although you need a good filtration system if you plan to use your pond as a source of water for your family.

For maximum benefit, create two separate ponds — one to provide emergency water for your family and one for your animals.

2. Free Pest Control

When you live in Tennessee, you have to contend with the mosquitoes, especially during the summer months. If you plan to run an organic homestead, you need access to natural pest control options.

You might not think of a pond as a way to control pests, especially mosquitoes. However, ponds attract helpful insects such as damselflies and dragonflies, which devour mosquitoes and their larvae. Ponds also attract frogs and salamanders, two additional natural sources for mosquito control. For added protection against mosquitoes, add Gambusia — mosquito fish — to your pond.

3. Additional Food Source

If you need an additional food source for your homestead, a pond can help. An active pond provides space for crops such as water chestnuts and watercress. In fact, with the right nutrients and care, you can grow many vegetables in your pond. In ancient days, the Aztec used floating islands in ponds to grow crops such as squash, tomatoes, and beans.

In addition to vegetable crops, you can stock your pond with fish to provide another source of food for your family.

4. Natural Fertilizer

If you grow other crops on your homestead, you need access to healthy fertilizer — especially one without harmful chemicals. Your pond provides a constant source of fertilizer for your gardens. Add water plants such as duckweed, water lilies, and water hyacinth to jump-start your compost heap.

You can also spread algae in your gardens and till the soil to provide the proper mixture of nutrients for your vegetable crops. Algae is rich in nitrogen, which enriches the soil and encourages plant growth.

5. Source of Electricity

If you have a small creek on your property, you can use the addition of a pond to generate small amounts of electricity for your homestead. When you divert a portion of your creek through your pond and install a waterwheel, the current produces electricity around the clock. Unlike solar power, you don't need to worry about the amount of sunlight you receive. You also don't need to worry about backup batteries or generators for your solar panels.

6. Space for Quiet Relaxation

Your pond can also provide you with a space for quiet relaxation. Water encourages tranquility and peace, and having a quiet place where you can escape from the pressures of your day-to-day life can reduce your stress.

If you plan to take your homestead off the grid, you need a pond on your property. You'll enjoy multiple benefits from the addition. Contact us at Henry Drilling LLC for more information about having a healthy pond on your property.

3 Proven Benefits of Pond Aeration

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 15:01:00 GMT

Many commercial property owners and residential land owners realize the benefits of having a pond. Besides adding a natural form of beauty to the property, ponds also offer a serene place to relax, which helps promote better sleep and improves mental health. For those who love nature, ponds also provide a nearby habitat to make it possible to observe and learn about certain plants and animals.

To thoroughly enjoy the many benefits of having a pond, you will need to get a pond aeration system installed. Some of the most common types of aeration systems include fountains, diffused pond aeration systems, windmill-powered aerators, and high-volume surface aerators.

While each type of aerator works in different ways, they all have one main purpose — to maintain movement in your pond water, which is part of a process called pond aeration.

In preventing pond water from becoming stagnant, aeration creates circulation in order to balance the ecosystem of the pond. Pond aeration offers many proven benefits, including the following three.

1. IT GREATLY IMPROVES THE QUALITY OF WATER

Murky pond water is an indication that the quality of water isn't very good. Pond water that is poor quality will not only look bad; it will also smell bad. Murky and foul-smelling water is caused when an unhealthy buildup of bacteria is in the water. This unhealthy bacteria prevents the oxygen in the water from circulating properly.

Along with creating circulation that restores oxygen levels to the pond, aeration also helps in the following ways to improve the quality of water:

Reduces alkalinity and restores pH levels
Removes carbon dioxide
Restores balance of other chemicals, such as nitrogen and phosphorous

By improving the quality of water, not only will your pond look and smell great again, but you will also be preventing the wildlife that lives in and nearby your pond from dying.

2. IT REDUCES THE AMOUNT OF MOSQUITO ACTIVITY

Since mosquitoes breed in standing fresh water, ponds are magnets for these pesky insects. Fortunately, for pond lovers, pond aeration can limit the amount of mosquito activity. This happens in two ways:

The surface water gets agitated so that mosquitoes aren't able to lay their eggs
The oxygenated water helps fish and other larvae-eating creatures to thrive

You don’t need a lot of fish in your pond to control mosquito populations either. Just one mosquito fish can consume 100 larvae per day. If you want fewer mosquitoes around your pond, you will want to invest in pond aeration services.

3. IT ELIMINATES THE THERMOCLINE

The transition layer between the warm water on the surface and the cooler water deep down below is known as the thermocline.

With pond aeration, the water gets mixed, which helps to eliminate these stratified layers. The cooler oxygen-starved water gets moved to the surface so that it retains adequate oxygen levels. The warmer water that is rich in oxygen gets sent to the bottom of the pond and helps beneficial bacteria to grow.

The constant churning of the cool and warm water helps balance the temperature so that it doesn't get too hot during the summer or too cold in the winter. If you live in a cold climate, this temperature regulation can prevent your pond water from becoming frozen, which will keep the fish alive.

Whether you have a pond on your commercial property or right in your own backyard, and you want to enjoy the benefits that pond aeration has to offer, don't hesitate to contact the professionals at Henry Drilling LLC. We can install a pond aeration system that suits the needs of you and your pond and also provide repair and maintenance services as well.

3 Methods of Removing Hydrogen Sulfide From Well Water

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 15:05:00 GMT

One of the most common well water contaminants goes by the name of hydrogen sulfide. This generally harmless gas produces a characteristic unpleasant odor — that of rotten eggs. Hydrogen sulfide also tends to turn water to a rather unattractive shade of yellow. The sooner you can eliminate such issues, the happier you'll be.

Well contractors use many different products and techniques to eliminate hydrogen sulfide. This profusion of options can be somewhat intimidating to homeowners. This article takes a closer look at three of the most common methods for treating hydrogen sulfide contamination in well water.

1. AERATION

As noted above, hydrogen sulfide exists as a gas suspended in the water. This gas may either be naturally occurring, or it may be the byproduct of certain species of otherwise harmless bacteria. Historically, homeowners used chemicals such as chlorine and potassium permanganate to oxidize hydrogen sulfide.

These chemicals cause the hydrogen sulfide to precipitate into a physical form that can then be filtered out. Unfortunately, such methods require homeowners to maintain a stock of appropriate chemicals. In addition, they often end up giving water an unpleasant chemical flavor.

The technique known as aeration avoids both of these problems. As its name implies, aeration harnesses the oxidizing power of air to eliminate problematic hydrogen sulfite.

In residential applications, aeration often takes place inside of a closed tank. These tanks use a type of induction device known as a Venturi to draw air into the tank as water flows in. This aerated water then mixes together inside of the tank. As the air and hydrogen sulfide gas combine, the hydrogen sulfide oxidizes into a harmless physical form.

At that point, the excess air passes out through a vent. The water, now containing the oxidized hydrogen sulfide, flows through a filter, which removes the physical contaminant. Such systems not only provide effective results, but do so passively — in other words, without the need for a power source.

2. CATALYTIC CARBON FILTRATION

Many homes with wells already make use of filtration systems to remove physical contaminants from water. Many such systems contain filters made from a substance known as activated carbon. While effective at removing numerous common contaminants from a water source, activated carbon filters struggle to deal with volatile organic compounds such as hydrogen sulfide.

A related type of filter material known as catalytic carbon promotes much better results. Here the carbon in the filter has been modified using a chemical process that improves its catalytic capabilities. Among other performance improvements, catalytic carbon filters do a much better job of removing hydrogen sulfide gas from water.

3. ION EXCHANGE

The ion exchange process can already be found in water softeners, which replace hard-water minerals with relatively harmless ones. Ion exchange can also remove hydrogen sulfide, since most of the hydrogen sulfide in water exists in an ionized form. The specific technology used for this purpose goes by the name of packed-bed anion exchange.

The beds in question contain special resin beads designed to carry a strong ionic charge. As the hydrogen sulfide percolates through the tank, these beads replace the sulfate groups with a soft, odorless equivalent. When correctly implemented, packed-bed anion exchange technology can neutralize over 90 percent of hydrogen sulfide molecules.

All well water falls prey to certain problems as years go on. Fortunately, solutions exist for most such problems. In the case of hydrogen sulfide, many different options exist for restoring your water to its ideal state. For more information about the system best suited for your needs, please contact Nashville's well and pump experts at Henry Drilling LLC.

How Do You Know If Your Water Is Safe?

Wed, 15 Aug 2018 15:11:00 GMT

Your water looks fine. It's clear, and you don't see anything floating in it. Does that mean you're getting the safe, quality tap water that you expect?

Unfortunately, looking at your water won't necessarily clue you into a potential problem. If unknown substances lurk in your water, they could be making you sick or jeopardizing your daily activities.

How can you find out what's in your water, and what can you do about its quality?

CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT

What's the quality level of your drinking water? Your community's Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) provides the information that you need when it comes to local water. Don't worry about digging through government websites or fighting bureaucratic red tape just to get your CCR. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all community water systems to provide residents with an annual CCR.

The EPA's CCR rules mandate that water suppliers send these drinking water quality reports out by July 1 of each year. In the event that you don't get a CCR in July, contact your water supplier. They must provide you with a copy of the report.

The CCR includes a comprehensive guide to what is in your drinking water (that is, over the past year). This includes where your water is coming from, risks of contamination, regulated contaminants that are present in the water, potential health effects from contaminated water, any applicable actions to correct and restore a safe drinking water supply, and educational information.

PRIVATE GROUND WATER WELLS

Only residents who get their water from a public water supplier are entitled to CCRs. You won't get a CCR if you live in an area that gets its water supply from a private groundwater well. Private groundwater wells do not fall under the EPA's regulations, meaning that the owners of the wells are responsible for testing the drinking water.

Like public water supplies, private wells can also produce contaminated water. The groundwater that private wells contain can sometimes have contaminants, and these substances can cause health issues in anyone who drinks or uses the water.

Remember, contaminated water isn't always noticeably polluted. Many contaminants, like bacteria, aren't visible to the human eye. If you use a private well, getting your water routinely tested by a private lab is absolutely essential to ensure its safety.

Both private wells and public water sources should be routinely tested. Make sure your test looks for the following:

Coliform bacteria
E. coli (fecal coliforms)
Nitrates
Sulfate
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Heavy metals, such as iron and manganese

Ask your water test provider to also let you know about the pH level, the total dissolved solids, and the hardness of the water. These factors affect how your water tastes and how much residue it will leave on your pipes and plumbing fixtures.

PRIVATE WELL MAINTENANCE

If you get water from a private well, make sure to have the water tested annually, as well as anytime you suspect a problem. For example, if you notice a significant change in the taste of your water, undesirable substances may have found their way into your well. You can make it easy to remember this important step if you schedule regular well check-ups.

Does your well have chronic problems with contamination? You may be able to solve the problem if you add a filtration system or update your current one. Again, a well maintenance specialist can advise you on the best filter options or pinpoint larger issues that may be affecting your well.

Trust Henry Drilling anytime you need well water testing services or other well maintenance. We can even drill a new well for you if you'd like to switch to a private water supply on your property.

Weather Issues That Affect Your Water Well

Wed, 18 Jul 2018 15:16:00 GMT

Water, as plentiful as it may seem when looking at a map of the world's broad oceans, large lakes, and network of rivers and streams, is still a very finite resource. Perhaps no one knows this better than the homeowners whose families are dependent upon a privately-owned water well to supply their water usage needs.

What these homeowners may not know, however, is that severe weather conditions, including both drought and flooding, can damage their well and interrupt their family's access to safe water.

HOW PERIODS OF DROUGHT AFFECTS YOUR WATER WELL

Rainfall, along with melting snow and ice, provides the moisture that becomes groundwater, filtering down into the underground aquifers that supply modern water wells. According to information provided by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), groundwater directly supplies as much as 97 percent of the rural households who are not connected to some type of municipal or county water system.

When rainfall ceases or falls well below normal and drought conditions occur, the underground water table can also fall, especially if pumping rates from area wells remain the same. If the drought lasts for an extended time, the water table may fall below the level of the well pump, causing it to be unable to pump water and essentially, go dry.

Homeowners who face a drought situation can take proactive measures to help reduce pumping pressure and prevent wells in their area from going dry, including:

Forming a community action group to educate area residents on the need to conserve water and reduce pumping pressure
Installing low-flow shower heads and repairing any leaks that may be wasting water
Stopping any unnecessary water use, such as irrigating the lawn or washing the car

Homeowners should also consider having their well components checked by a professional during a drought situation. Doing this will ensure that the pump is not trying to draw water unnecessarily due to a waterlogged pressure tank or an issue with a control switch.

WHAT HAPPENS TO A WATER WELL DURING A FLOOD

Just as too little water can affect the performance and health of a water well, too much water can also prove disastrous. Tennessee residents have weathered severe flooding several times in the past decade alone, with those occurring in 2010 and 2016 being some of the most damaging in terms of life and property.

Rural residents who depend on water wells are wise to be concerned about flooding, especially if they live in a known floodplain area. When floodwaters cover the ground above where a drilled well is located, the water can drain down through the pipe and into the aquifer that feeds the well.

Since floodwaters are potentially filled with contaminants, including human or animal feces, the well becomes contaminated and unsafe to drink. Homeowners who experience flooding that impacts their drilled well should immediately stop drinking water from it and rely on bottled water instead. If bottled water is not available, the well water can be filtered and purified for safety.

The Environmental Protection Agency suggests purifying unsafe water by heating it to a rolling boil for at least one full minute, then cooling to a safe temperature before using it for human consumption or hygiene. Water from the tap will not be potable until the entire well has been disinfected and tested to ensure it is safe to drink.

Flood waters that rise enough to cover the well head, pressure tank, filters, or electrical controls of a private well can damage these components or make them inoperable.

At Henry Drilling LLC , we know that safe drinking water is critical for your family's health. We welcome your questions about caring for your water well, whether it’s during a drought, a flood, or just something related to routine maintenance.

3 Preventable Causes Of Well Pump Burnout

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 15:20:00 GMT

Many homes located in rural parts of the country rely on wells to provide them with water. Once upon a time, owning a well meant laboriously hauling up buckets of water. Fortunately, today's technology makes accessing well water as simple as turning on your tap. Yet you may find yourself without water if one or more well components cease to work correctly.

Pumps are one of the most common sources of well problems. As you can probably guess, the pump bears the responsibility of drawing water up out of your well and into your home. This article will take a closer look at three common causes of one of the most devastating pump problems — a complete burnout.

1. Waterlogged Pressure Tank

All well pump systems utilize a component known as the pressure tank. As its name implies, the pressure tank collects and pressurizes the water coming up from the well. That way, your home can enjoy an uninterrupted and evenly pressurized flow of water. Without a pressure tank, water pressure would gradually decrease the longer you ran a particular fixture.

Pressure tanks may occasionally develop a problem known as waterlogging, which can lead to pump burnout. Waterlogging occurs when parts of the tank meant to be occupied only by air fill up instead with water. This makes it more difficult for the tank to regulate pressure as the water level drops.

Worse still, when the pump turns on to refill the tank, the volume of water that flows in will be much smaller than desired. The reason for this has to do with the fact that water cannot be compressed in the same way as air. With less water in the tank, it will soon reach the level when the pump has to turn on again.

Chronic waterlogging causes your pump to have to operate much more frequently than it should. Overheating often follows. And an overheated pump stands a much greater chance of burning out than one which remains within acceptable temperature levels.

2. Leaky Foot Valve

Foot valves are one of the most important features of the pipe that extends down into your well. The foot valve can be found at the very tip of this pipe. The foot valve's job is to prevent water that has entered the pipe from dropping back down into the well. So long as the pump remains running this isn't too hard, since the water is being actively drawn up from above.

The foot valve's real job comes into play during periods when the pump stops running. If the foot valve develops a leak, then water will slip back down out of the pipe. If all of the water dribbles out in this manner, the well will have lost its prime. The next time the pump turns on, it will only be able to suck up air until primed once again.

If the unprimed pump runs for too long, it will overheat and soon burn out. Therefore, if you have noticed that your well needs to be re-primed on a regular basis, you must have your foot valve professionally inspected as soon as possible.

3. Insufficient Water Level

Every well differs in terms of its water's depth. Not only that, but this depth will often experience some degree of fluctuation over the course of the seasons. Unfortunately, many pump burnouts stem from an insufficient water level. This causes the well pipe to begin sucking in air, which in turn causes the pump's temperature to increase beyond safe thresholds.

To compensate for a weak well, contractors will often add an extra section of pipe known as the tail pipe. The tail pipe simply extends the depth of the well's reach, ensuring that the foot valve never rises above the water level. For more information about keeping well pump burnouts at bay, please contact Tennessee's experts at Henry Drilling LLC.

4 Ways Geothermal HVAC Can Help You Save the Earth

Wed, 16 May 2018 15:24:00 GMT

You've probably heard in general terms that a geothermal heat pump is a more eco-friendly HVAC solution, but you should know all the details before you start planning to install one. Geothermal systems aren't just eco-friendly because they use less energy; they actually have several features that offer environmental benefits. Here are four of the top ways this type of system can help you save the earth.

1. GEOTHERMAL USES LOCAL HEAT DIFFERENCES

A geothermal pump uses the ground under your yard as a heat sink in summer to cool your home and pulls heat up from it in winter to heat your home. This use will have some effect on the temperature of the ground in your area, but it's an extremely local effect. The heat doesn't travel far — just up to your house or back down to the ground.

A geothermal pump has a much smaller effect on your surroundings than a heat pump that gets its heat from the air, which is an especially important point if you live in an urban area. Multiple HVAC units pumping out heat into the air can result in the urban heat island effect, which causes the temperature to often rise several degrees higher in cities than it otherwise would, which can negatively affect native species and local ecosystems.

2. GEOTHERMAL DOESN'T DEPEND ON NON-RENEWABLE FOSSIL FUELS

As of 2017, almost 63% of America's energy usage is derived from fossil fuels. Only 17% of the energy generated in 2017 was renewable. So unless you're very lucky, your power company probably uses fossil fuels.

While normal HVAC units use electrical power to run, which will use fossil fuels from your power company, a geothermal system doesn't depend on electricity to create heat. The system uses renewable heat from the ground around your home, reducing your carbon footprint and effect on the earth.

3. GEOTHERMAL SYSTEMS NEED LESS MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

Any increase in your HVAC system's longevity is a win as far as eco-friendliness is concerned, because it means you'll be tossing fewer AC units into landfills over your lifetime. In addition, reducing the repair and replacement parts needed over the lifetime of the system means reducing the amount of raw materials needed to meet the demand for HVAC system repairs.

Since a geothermal system tends to last longer and have longer-lasting parts than other systems, it comes out on top in terms of waste and production.

4. GEOTHERMAL CREATES LESS NOISE POLLUTION

In addition to the urban heat island effect, conventional AC systems can also contribute greatly to noise pollution. Geothermal heat pumps, though, offer much quieter operation, providing yet another way you can reduce your impact on your local environment and your contribution to global noise problems.

Noise pollution problems are most severe in urban environments, where many AC units are grouped together and their noise is combined with other noises in the area. But no matter where you live, keeping noise levels down could help your hearing, blood pressure, and mental energy as well as help the environment.

These are just four ways geothermal HVAC systems can help you help the earth. And here's a bonus: open-loop geothermal systems are even more eco-friendly because they use water instead of chemical refrigerants. Although you can really only install this open-loop type if you have plenty of groundwater available, such as in your private well.

No matter why you decide on geothermal heating and cooling, be sure to give Henry Drilling LLC a call for your free estimate. We offer expert drilling services for not only geothermal HVAC systems but also wells, irrigation, and more. So read our blog, get in touch via phone or our onsite contact form , and let us know how we can help with your newest project.

Water Well Inspections and Tests

Sat, 14 Apr 2018 15:31:00 GMT

If you have a home served by a private water well or plan to buy one, you are in good company. In fact, according to information provided by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), more than 15 million homes are currently served by private water wells. Homeowners who have this type of water supply typically enjoy years of access to safe water without the monthly water bills, boil orders, and regulations that often accompany many public water supplies.

But owning and managing your own private water well system is not something to take lightly. Instead, homeowners must take the risk of contamination, mechanical failure, and other potential problems seriously. Scheduling inspections and tests are just one way in which homeowners can more effectively manage these risks and help to ensure that their water supply will continue to be abundant, safe, and efficient. Learn more about these tests and a few times you should be sure to have these tests done.

Water Well System Inspections and Water Testing

When performed by a trained, licensed inspector or installer, the water well inspection process can provide an excellent assessment of the water well and the components that make up the system, including the pump, pressure tank, controls, and piping. However, these inspections differ from a water test for contaminants. Homeowners should know when to consider having each type of test performed.

A water test is often available through county health departments or certified testing facilities. In some areas, a certified technician will collect the sample. In others, prospective buyers may be required to obtain sample collection kits and then send the sample off to an approved lab for testing.

The most common water tests measure the level of contaminants like E. coli and coliforms, both of which are capable of causing serious illness in humans and animals. In addition, most samples are also screened for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitrate, and pH levels. If any of these are found to exceed safe parameters, some type of sanitization process, such as shocking the well, or the addition of a filtration or purification device, may be needed to ensure the water is safe to drink.

Inspections and Testing When Buying a Home

Before finalizing the purchase of any home served by a private water well, have both a well inspection and water test performed. The water well system inspection will help determine any component issues that could be costly to repair or renovate. The water test will ensure that the water is safe to consume.

By making sure to utilize the inspection contingency in any offer made on a home, buyers will be able to include a water test and well inspection, along with the standard home inspection or any other inspections they need or want. Buyers will, however, need to be prepared to order these inspections from certified inspectors and testing agencies and pay for them.

System Inspections After a Direct Lightning Strike

Lightning strikes can cause extensive damage to the electrical components of the well, including the pump and the control box, as well as shorting out wires and outlets. Oddly, the damage may not be readily apparent and the well may continue to function for few days or even a few weeks after the strike occurs.

By having the system inspected for evidence of the strike, homeowners may be able to avoid a complete well failure and reduce the scope and cost of the repairs. Well inspections performed after a lightning strike may show evidence of charred or melted wires and connections, damaged components, or reduced voltage readings that can indicate a looming system failure.

In addition to those mentioned, water well systems and certified water tests should also be performed after flooding, storm damage, or periods of long inactivity. Home buyers or owners who would like additional information about water wells, including water quality issues, can contact Henry Drilling and speak with one of our friendly professionals.

2 Great Options for Clean Well Water

Thu, 15 Mar 2018 15:35:00 GMT

Having a well on your property brings a lot of wonderful advantages. For one thing, you won't have to worry about a monthly water bill. For another, you won't be subject to the variety of problems that can affect a municipal water supply. Yet owning a well does mean that you will have to make a plan to ensure that your water remains clean and safe for drinking.

Fortunately, you've never had more options when it comes to different methods of cleaning water. In fact, many homeowners find themselves somewhat overwhelmed by the range of choices. If you would like to learn more about two of the most effective methods of decontaminating water, read on. This article will discuss the benefits of UV disinfection and physical filtration systems.

1. UV Disinfection

Bacteria can be found as a naturally occurring part of most, if not all, water sources. And most species of bacteria pose little harm when it comes to the health of human beings. But if a certain variety known as coliform bacteria happen to take up residence in your well water, then you and your family stand a real chance of becoming very sick.

To ensure that your well water remains free of coliform and other nasty bacteria like it, you will need to use some type of disinfection. The simplest way to disinfect water is to boil the water that you will use for washing, cooking, or drinking. Yet to boil all of the water that enters in your home would end up costing a small fortune.

A more cost-effective method involves the use of ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light is distinguished by its incredibly short wavelength - so short that UV rays cannot be seen by human eyes. Its tiny length gives UV rays their incredible disinfecting power, making them capable of passing right through the cell walls of bacteria and viruses and into their DNA.

Ultraviolet light causes irreparable damage to the genetic material of bacteria, leaving them unable to reproduce - and therefore unable to make you and your family sick. By passing water through a UV disinfection system as it enters your home, you can ensure the cleanest possible drinking water.

After learning about the effects of UV light on bacteria, many people harbor concerns about its effects on humans. You have nothing to worry about in this regard. While direct exposure to UV rays is obviously dangerous for humans, water that has been treated by UV light will cause no such harm. And UV light won't lead to any noticeable changes in the appearance or taste of your water.

2. Physical Filtration

As effective as UV disinfection systems are, they won't do much to remove physical debris, such as mineral deposits, from your water. So you should consider some form of a physical filtration system as well.

Water pitchers equipped with carbon fiber filters would be the simplest form of physical filtration. The carbon fiber captures any unwanted impurities and keeps them out of the water you drink. But it simply wouldn't be feasible to filter all the water in your home in this manner.

Instead, homeowners often install what is known as a point of entry system. Point of entry systems often utilize filters quite similar to those in water pitchers. However, the carbon filter is placed near the main entry pipe of your home's water supply in a point of entry system, meaning that all of your water will be filtered before it ever reaches the fixtures of your home.

Part of being a responsible well owner involves taking steps to keep your water as clean as possible. For more information about the different strategies at your disposal, please don't hesitate to contact the pros at Henry Drilling LLC.

7 Things Homeowners Should Know About Geo thermal Heat

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 16:05:00 GMT

If you haven't yet explored the possibility of using a geothermal HVAC system in your home, you should learn more about this advantageous method of residential heating and cooling.

Geothermal heating uses the earth's temperature beneath the ground as an exchange medium rather than outside air for home heating and cooling. While these systems have been around since the late 1940s , many homeowners still aren't aware of their capabilities and advantages.

As a homeowner, you should be aware of the following seven factors regarding geothermal heating if you're looking for a new HVAC system for your home:

1. Quiet Operation

Geothermal systems operate more quietly than more traditional systems like gas furnaces and standard heat pumps. Much of the geothermal system is located underground, and the underground location of the equipment provides sound insulation.

The outdoor and indoor units of traditional HVAC equipment can make a distracting amount of noise that can irritate both homeowners and their neighbors. If you worry about the sound levels of the HVAC equipment in your home, you're best off opting for geothermal heating and cooling.

2. Limited Maintenance Needs

Geothermal systems need minimal maintenance in comparison to traditional furnaces and heat pumps. The earth loops that make up the underground portion of the system are designed for resilience and protected beneath the ground so that they require only minimal intervention.

The other components of the system, like the pumps, fans, and compressors, are protected from extreme temperatures by being located indoors. Occasional inspections and necessary filter changes keep a geothermal system operating effectively through the years.

3. Energy Efficiency

Geothermal systems are good investments for homeowners because of the efficiency benefits they offer. Geothermal HVAC systems heat and cool a home with renewable energy because they function thanks to natural heating and cooling effects from the earth.

These savings aren't just good for the environment. They're also good for your finances. Through the years, geothermal systems can save homeowners a great deal of money on utility costs because they operate more efficiently than other HVAC systems.

4. Cooling Capabilities

Some homeowners assume that a geothermal system provides heating but not cooling. Geothermal heat pumps can both heat and cool a home. They handle a home's heating needs in the winter and cooling needs during the summer months.

Therefore, homeowners with geothermal systems do not need to have a separate air conditioner to keep their home comfortable throughout the year.

5. Multiple Heating Capabilities

Geothermal systems can be designed to accommodate numerous heating needs in the home. Along with in-home heating, they can also be set up to provide ambient heating, water heating, or swimming pool heating. Furthermore, a geothermal system can provide heating for all of these various needs simultaneously.

6. Tax Incentives

Homeowners sometimes decide not to invest in a geothermal system because of the upfront. Fortunately, the U.S. Department of Energy entices homeowners to take advantage of the technology because it is good for the environment.

The government offers various tax credits that can allay some of the initial expense of a geothermal system. If you're a homeowner considering geothermal heating, you should take advantages of these credits.

7. Lifespan of Geothermal Systems

While the initial installation of a geothermal system may be costly, you can depend on these systems to last a long time. Homeowners should look at the installation of a geothermal system as a long-term investment that will pay for itself over time in utility and maintenance savings.

If you're interested in learning more about geothermal heat, you can contact Henry Drilling with questions and inquiries regarding the potentials of geothermal energy.

How to Keep Your Pond From Turning Green

Sun, 14 Jan 2018 17:23:00 GMT

You've probably seen a pond in which the water is more green than blue. Green pond water is a common problem, and it can be a tough one to solve.

If you have a new pond or one that is still looking quite blue, then you'll want to take steps to keep it from turning green. Here are four things you can do to prevent green pond water.

Remove Debris From the Bottom of the Pond

Fallen leaves, grass clippings, and other debris often collect at the bottom of a pond. Algae feed on this debris, which is what turns the water green. Therefore, eliminating the debris is an important first step toward keeping your pond water clear and fresh.

If you have a small pond, you can generally do this with a pool skimmer. Use a skimmer with fine mesh, and skim it multiple times so you don't miss debris that gets scattered the first time you skim. If you have a larger pond, you may wish to use a pond vacuum to remove debris - rather than attempting to skim by hand.

Pond vacuums are pretty easy to use. Plug in your vacuum and turn it on. Then, while standing near the edge of the pond, insert the nozzle into the pond, and start dragging it across the bottom of the pond in big sweeping motions. Vacuum or skim your pond twice a year - once in the spring and once in the fall.

Keep Your Pond Aerated

Pond water is generally stagnant. In other words, it does not move or flow a lot. As a result, the bottom of the pond ends up deprived of oxygen. This causes unhealthy bacteria and algae to build up in the oxygendeprived waters, which will eventually give your pond a green look. Aeration is a process by which your pond water is stirred to bring oxygen down to the lower areas.

An easy way to aerate your pond is to have a fountain or other moving water feature installed. Such a feature will continually keep the water mixed so you do not get an oxygen-deprived green zone in the bottom. You can also have an aeration machine installed. Such a machine will circulate pond water without causing any noticeable above-surface water movement.

Keep Phosphate Levels in Check

Phosphates are a component in fertilizer. They promote plant growth, which includes the growth of green algae. If phosphate levels in your pond grow too high, then your pond will turn green. There are a few ways to keep your pond's phosphate levels in check:

Avoid applying fertilizer to plants and lawns directly around the pond.
Ensure water from a fertilized lawn or garden bed is not running off into your pond. Have your landscape's slope adjusted if needed.

If you live in an agricultural area, the phosphate levels in the soil may be high due to heavy fertilizer use by farmers. Have your pond's phosphate levels tested. If the levels are elevated, there are phosphate-binding solutions you can add to your pond to remove phosphate and prevent the algae growth that may eventually cause your pond to turn green.

Don't Overload Your Pond With Fish

Some fish eat algae, so pond owners often figure that adding fish to the pond will keep it from turning green. This is only true to a certain extent. If you add too many fish to the pond, some won't survive, and then their bodies will become organic matter that ultimately feeds the bacteria and algae that cause ponds to turn green.

A good guideline is to allow one fish per every 4 feet of pond surface area. For example, if you have a 400 square-foot pond, then stock it with about 100 fish.

If you follow the tips above, you can prevent your pond from taking on an unappealing green color. If you'd like to have a pond aeration device installed, then contact the experts at Henry Drilling, LLC .

3 Signs Your Home's Well Is Going Dry

Sat, 16 Dec 2017 17:27:00 GMT

Having a well for your home provides many benefits, including tax exemptions and cleaner, fresher water for your family. Materials used in the original installation, how deep your well is and where you are located all determine just how long your water supply within your unit will last.

When your well begins to run dry (a dry well isn't necessarily out of water; it simply has a pump installed higher than the current water height), you will begin to see certain signs. If you notice any of the following three signals your well is running dry, call your well drilling specialist for assistance.

Spitting Water

As water levels begin to drop lower than your well's pump, air gets into the water source. These air pockets cause tap and other running water sources that use the well to spit. You may also notice other odd changes in your water, including gurgling noises when water is running or lower water pressure than usual.

Call your well drilling specialist right away if you feel your water is coming out of the faucet strangely. The issue with your water supply could be the pump itself failing to operate as it should or water levels running too low for enough water to pass through. Your drilling expert can diagnose and repair the problem for you.

Odd-Tasting Water

our faucets may suddenly begin gushing out water that tastes or even looks muddy or riddled with debris. You may begin to see a small amount of sediment left behind in the tub after showering and other signs that your water is not as clear as it used to be.

This is often a key sign of water levels being too low for your pump to reach them. When your well begins sucking water from the bottom of the well, the water that is filtered may still remain somewhat filthy because most of what is being sucked through the pump is mud or sandy water. Your pump may need to be cleaned out in addition to having your well treated by your drilling specialist if this is the case.

No Water

Avoid applying fertilizer to plants and lawns directly around the pond.
Ensure water from a fertilized lawn or garden bed is not running off into your pond. Have your landscape's slope adjusted if needed.

Don't Overload Your Pond With Fish

Finally, the most obvious sign your well is running dry is lack of water completely. You can lift the cover on your well and check the water level yourself, but it's best to call your drilling specialist right away if you are experiencing an issue with water supply. Your pump may be failing to operate, or if it is working, it can become severely damaged if it is left running without a water source.

No water coming from your well is an emergency situation, so don't hesitate to call your drilling expert as soon as you notice water pressure dropping or water slowing to a trickle when faucets are turned on. The sooner your well issue is investigated, the sooner you will be able to have clear, running water again.

Keep in mind that you are responsible for your well's water use. Make sure to only use water as needed, avoiding taking long showers or leaving water running while you are brushing your teeth. Water conservation in the home is the best way to preserve the water supply in your well.

Your drilling specialist can deepen your well so it receives the water your family needs again. If your well's pump needs to be repaired or replaced, then this can be done as well when your well is inspected.

A healthy well can supply your family with clean water for many years. Talk to our drilling specialists at Henry Drilling LLC to discuss concerns you have with your home's well.

Thinking About Getting a Pond? What You Should Know

Wed, 15 Nov 2017 17:32:00 GMT

When you are thinking about installing a pond on your property, you may be overwhelmed with all of the possibilities and the ideas that you have for what your pond should look like. However, there are also many other factors that you should keep in mind and consider in the process.

To ensure you make the right choices about your landscaping design, it is important to learn some of the important facts about getting a pond and caring for it. That way, you can be sure that the decision you make is the best one for you and your needs.

Consider the Pond's Electrical Needs

To properly maintain your pond and prevent it from becoming a pool of stagnant water growing algae and acting as a breeding ground for mosquitoes, you will need to run a pump system in your pond. This means that your pond will need electricity.

As you plan where you want to put your pond and how you want your overall landscape design to look, remember that your pond will need to be within reasonable reach of a grounded and covered electrical outlet. Knowing this fact may inform your design decisions and help you to better plan your pond installation.

The pump in your pond is meant to keep the water moving. It will also help to keep the water that circulates through the pond clean. Your pond pump will also include a filtration system so that you can dip your toes in the water without worrying about bacteria, mold and other such health hazards.

Decide If You Want a Waterfall or Stream Element

Some ponds are more intricate and fancy than others. If you want your pond to look particularly realistic, with elements like a stream or waterfall, you will want to consider this in your design process.

Having a stream or waterfall can help to make the water circulation for your pond look more organic and true to nature. It can also add perspective and depth to your landscaping design and overall aesthetic.

However, having a waterfall or stream means that you will also have more fountain to maintain and will need to be sure that you watch any children or pets that go outside carefully. A waterfall especially can be dangerous for both small children and pets as they could fall and injure themselves or possibly even drown.

Consider Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Finally, you will need to take into account the fact that you will not only need to put out the initial costs of installing your pond but also the costs and effort of cleaning, maintenance and proper aeration. To ensure that the chemical balance of your pond is correct, for example, you will need to ensure that your aeration (pump system) is functioning properly.

This will require regular aeration system maintenance by professionals with expertise in water systems. They will test your water, inspect the aeration system and perform any necessary adjustments and repairs. You will want to have your system tested at minimum once a year, but twice a year would be ideal.

You will also want to clean your pond system on a regular basis. Skim the pond surface every few days like you would a pool to remove any leaves or dead insects from the water. Removing any sticks or debris from around the pond can also help to keep the area clean and nice-looking. It is also important to clean and change filters on a regular routine basis if you want your pond to stay as clean as possible.

Now that you know a few of the important factors to consider when you are thinking about getting a pond for your landscaping, you can better plan for the process and decide if a pond is the right choice for you.

Considerations for Drilling a Well on a Homestead

Tue, 17 Oct 2017 17:38:00 GMT

Buying and creating a sustainable homestead is becoming an increasingly popular option for many people. However, the issue with some larger plots of land is the need for a well. This is due to the location of most plots of land used for homesteading.

These are older farms or large lots of land that contain several dozen or more acres, and they are typically situated well-outside of town. If this describes your situation, here are some things to consider before well drilling starts.

Drilling Method

When you decide to schedule well-drilling services, you'll have to decide on which drilling method to use. There are two main types of drilling methods. The first is cable drilling and the second is rotary drilling, and there are a few things to know about these methods. The cable drilling method uses a pounder that is attached to a cable. The cable is then raised and dropped - dropping the pounder and breaking up the ground underneath.

A rotary drilling method uses a drill-bit option. This method is the more common method that you will find in well drilling. The rotary drilling option can be faster and can go to deeper depths than the cable drilling may be able to reach. It can also break up more obstacles and debris. The type of land you have will also play into which type of drilling option is used or suggested.

Pump Type

The type of pump that your well will use is something you should understand. There are several types of pumps, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Jet pumps will lift water up to 150 feet while a submersible turbine will go up to 400 feet. The type of pump that you choose will greatly depend on the depth of your well, the water pressure that may already exist and the type of filtration you will need.

When you look at the different types of pumps available, you will also be looking at the type of filtration systems that are available. If you have a large amount of a certain mineral or pollutant in your water, such as lead, you will need filtration devices that remove pollutants without overpowering the pump itself.

Well Quantity

Something that new homesteaders may not consider is how many wells they actually require to meet their property needs. For example, you may think that you need a pump at the house, a pump near a barn, and so on. The truth is, with the right well and pump system, you may not need as many as you think.

Before you step forward and order several well-digging services, consider a consultation with the contractor. They can help you decide how many wells you need, the placement of the wells and other aspects that will create the best options for your homesteading needs and development.

Artesian Wells

Some homesteaders have the option of avoiding pumps if they have access to an artesian well. An artesian well brings pressure naturally, rather than relying on pressure from an installed pump. This can greatly benefit your homestead and your budget because pumps are not necessarily required to use the well. If you aren't sure if you have an artesian well source on the property, consider having your land surveyed.

These are only a few of the considerations to keep in mind. If you aren't sure what kind of well you need, what services you may need or if there are other options that may be available to you then contact the well experts at Henry Drilling LLC to schedule a consultation and estimate.

Should You Get a Well Water System?

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 17:43:00 GMT

If you’re planning on moving, one of the main things that should be on your mind is the water system at your new house. Water is a basic necessity, so it makes sense that your access to water is a main concern when it comes to choosing your new home. If you’re trying to decide whether getting a well-water system is the right decision for you, this guide will help.

Learn About Well Water

You might be wondering what well water is. If you’ve ever seen a Disney movie, you’ve probably seen an image of a well, specifically a wishing well. While most wells today don’t look like those stereotypical wishing wells, one thing remains true: well water comes from the ground.

Many people aren’t aware of this, but far beneath the earth’s surface you can actually find quite a bit of water. The point of a well is to tap into this underground supply so you can use the water for your home or business. Digging underground may sound like a difficult way of obtaining water, but wells and well water actually have quite a few advantages.

Save Money

Perhaps the most enticing thing about well water is that it is basically an endless resource. Because of this, having a well would most likely be financially beneficial. While installing a well might be a little pricey, in the long run this investment could save you quite a bit of money.

Drink Clean, Pure-Tasting Water

Have you ever noticed that the tap water in your home or in the bottles that you buy has a slight chemical taste to it? You’re not imagining things! One major advantage of well water is that it is usually already pure and safe to drink. Bottled water, on the other hand, typically has chlorine and fluoride in it, and the presence of these chemicals can result in a bit of an odd taste.

If you’re tired of tasting chemicals in your water, getting a well is definitely a good thing to consider. Not only will you find a difference in the taste of your water, but your water also might even smell better because it will be completely free of added chemicals. If you have a sensitive nose, getting a well is definitely something to think about.

Although well water is typically safe without added chemicals, you’ll still want to routinely check to make sure that your water isn’t contaminated. It’s not likely that you’ll need to worry about contaminated well water, but if the need ever arises, plenty of water purifiers could solve this issue for you.

Consider Your Location

One thing to be aware of is that water wells rely heavily upon precipitation. If you live in an area that goes through frequent droughts, this could not only affect the amount of water your well has but also affect the quality of your well water. If you’re thinking about getting a house with a well, make sure you live in an area that will support your water needs.

Leave the Work to the Experts

If you do decide that a well is the right option for you, you’ll want to make sure you choose the right company to install your well for you. It’s possible that your well will break down and have maintenance issues over time, so you want to go with a company who will be able to help you if the need ever arises.

Before you decide to work with a specific company, make sure to do your research so that you can feel confident that you are getting the best deal available. Most companies are willing to sit down with you to give you a quote and answer any questions you may have.

For any further questions or concerns you may have about wells and well water, talk with Henry Drilling. We’ll be happy to talk with you about wells and our drilling services.