Rehabilitating a Water Well – What You Need to Know

If your irrigation well isn’t performing like it used to, it may be time for rehabilitation. One of the most common signs is when the specific capacity (the volume of water pumped per unit of drawdown) has dropped to about 80% of what it was when the well was new. Another clear sign is if your pump starts sucking air – a situation that can cause damage and inefficiency in your system.

What Does “Sucking Air” Mean?

When your pump starts pulling in air, it usually means the pumping water level has fallen below the level of the pump intake. You’ll notice a surging or spitting action in the discharge line and hear unusual sounds coming from the system. This condition can’t be ignored—it’s a sign that water flow into the well has become seriously restricted.

Your Three Options When a Well Declines

During the peak of irrigation season, a drop in well performance is more than inconvenient—it threatens crop health and yield. At this point, you typically have three options:

1. Partially close the discharge valve to reduce flow.

   • Temporary fix

   • Helps stop air from entering the pump

   • Downside: Reduces the volume of water going to your irrigation system, which can impact productivity.

2. Rehabilitate the well.

   • Best long-term solution

   • Restores water flow and extends well life

   • Requires professional services and the right methods.

3. Drill a replacement well.

   • Most expensive option

   • Sometimes necessary when the well is beyond repair.

How Well Rehabilitation Works

Rehabilitating a well isn’t a DIY job. It requires specialised knowledge, equipment, and chemicals. The first step is to hire a licensed and experienced well driller—someone who understands both the mechanics and chemistry of well restoration.

Here’s what proper rehabilitation should involve:

1. Remove the Pump

Taking the pump out allows access to the full depth of the well and prevents damage during cleaning. It also provides an opportunity to inspect the pump and motor for wear and damage.

2. Assess the Blockage

Technicians may use downhole cameras or tools to inspect the screen and formation. Blockages could be biological (like iron bacteria), chemical (mineral scale), or physical (sediment build-up).

3. Apply Chemicals and Mechanical Tools

Cleaning involves a four-step process, typically combining:

• Mechanical agitation (brushing, surging, jetting)

• Chemical treatment (acids, dispersants, or biocides)

• High-pressure development techniques

• Pumping to waste (to flush out loosened debris)

Often, chemical treatment and physical redevelopment are done simultaneously for best results.

4. Final Testing

Once cleaning is complete, the well is tested for flow rate, drawdown, and water quality to confirm that rehabilitation has been successful.

A Cost-Effective Investment

Compared to the cost of a new well—or the losses caused by a poorly functioning one—rehabilitation is a smart, cost-effective option. With professional help, you can often return your well to near-original performance and keep your irrigation running strong through the peak season.

Need help with a well that’s underperforming?

Aquabiotics Industrial specialises in well rehabilitation solutions across Australia. Contact us today to discuss your options and get your water flow back on track.

Reliable water. Better yields.