How to Troubleshoot Low Borehole
By bestcareboreholedrilling.co.ke | Contact: 0722466091
Low water yield from boreholes is a common frustration for property owners who depend on groundwater for their daily needs. When your borehole suddenly produces less water than expected or stops flowing altogether, immediate action is required to diagnose and resolve the issue. Understanding the underlying causes and implementing systematic troubleshooting steps can restore your water supply efficiently.
Understanding Low Borehole Yield
A low-yielding borehole typically manifests as reduced water flow, intermittent supply, or complete cessation of water production. The problem often develops gradually, making it challenging to identify the exact moment when yields began declining. Several interconnected factors contribute to this issue, ranging from natural geological changes to mechanical failures within the borehole system.
Primary Causes of Reduced Water Yield
Aquifer Depletion represents the most serious cause of declining borehole performance. Over-extraction from multiple boreholes in an area can lower the water table below your borehole’s screened sections. Seasonal variations, prolonged drought periods, and increased local water demand accelerate this depletion process.
Screen Blockage occurs when sediment, mineral deposits, or biological growth accumulate around the borehole screen. Fine particles gradually reduce the effective porosity of the screen, restricting water flow into the borehole. Iron bacteria and calcium carbonate deposits are particularly problematic in certain geological formations.
Pump-Related Issues encompass various mechanical failures that reduce pumping efficiency. Worn impellers, damaged pump housing, incorrect pump positioning, or inadequate pump capacity for the borehole depth can significantly impact water production. Electrical problems affecting pump motor performance also contribute to reduced yields.
Borehole Structural Problems include casing damage, screen collapse, or settling of the borehole walls. These issues can restrict water flow pathways and reduce the effective diameter of the water-bearing sections.
Systematic Troubleshooting Process
Begin troubleshooting by measuring static water level using a water level meter or weighted tape measure. Record the depth to water when the pump is off and compare it to historical measurements. A significant drop in static water level indicates aquifer depletion or seasonal variations affecting the local water table.
Test pump performance by monitoring flow rates at different pumping intensities. Use a flow meter to measure actual output and compare it to the pump’s rated capacity. If the pump operates but produces minimal water, mechanical wear or blockage is likely. Strange noises, vibrations, or electrical irregularities during pump operation indicate mechanical problems requiring professional attention.
Assess water quality changes that might signal underlying issues. Increased sediment, unusual taste, or color changes suggest screen blockage or aquifer contamination. Collect water samples for basic testing if quality changes are observed.
Examine the electrical system powering the pump. Check voltage levels, electrical connections, and control systems. Voltage fluctuations or inadequate power supply can reduce pump efficiency even when the pump appears to function normally.
Professional Intervention Requirements
Some troubleshooting steps require specialized equipment and expertise. Borehole video inspection using downhole cameras can identify structural damage, screen condition, and sediment accumulation that isn’t visible from the surface. This diagnostic tool provides crucial information for determining appropriate remedial actions.
Aquifer testing through controlled pumping tests helps determine sustainable yield rates and aquifer characteristics. Professional hydrogeologists can interpret test results to recommend optimal pumping schedules and equipment specifications.
Chemical treatment for screen rehabilitation involves introducing specific chemicals to dissolve mineral deposits and biological growth. This process requires expertise in chemical selection, application methods, and safety procedures.
Preventive Maintenance Strategies
Regular monitoring of water levels, flow rates, and water quality helps identify declining performance before complete failure occurs. Schedule annual pump inspections and maintain detailed records of borehole performance metrics.
Implement appropriate pumping schedules that allow aquifer recovery between pumping cycles. Avoid continuous pumping that exceeds the sustainable yield of your aquifer.
Install proper filtration systems to prevent sediment from entering distribution systems while protecting the borehole from contamination.
When to Contact Professionals
Contact experienced borehole specialists when troubleshooting reveals complex issues beyond basic maintenance. Professional intervention is essential for aquifer testing, pump replacement, screen rehabilitation, or borehole reconstruction.
At bestcareboreholedrilling.co.ke, our experienced team provides comprehensive borehole diagnostics and remedial services. Contact us at 0722466091 for professional assessment and restoration of your borehole system.
Proper troubleshooting combined with preventive maintenance ensures reliable long-term water supply from your borehole investment.