Frequently Asked Questions
Please click on the following links for a descriptive resource:
Water Testing Form ALS Labs Winnipeg
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do you determine the depth of wells in our area?
We use the knowledge we have acquired since 1892 and the computerized records supplied by Manitoba Water Stewardship and Saskatchewan Watershed Authority.
Please have your legal description handy and owner of the property at the time of information request. A legal description is the address in quarter, section, township, and range. ie: NW-10-9-8-E
If you would like to find out about a well on your property you can contact the:
Manitoba Water Stewardship
http://www.gov.mb.ca/waterstewardship/
1007 Century Street
Winnipeg, MB
(800) 214-6497
What do you charge?
Prices are based on footage rate based on the area where the well is drilled, a grout fee and screen charge if required. Wells must be grouted to prevent surface water from entering the groundwater. In some cases an hourly rate is charged, but the footage rate is the norm.
How far do you have to be from the house, septic tank, etc.?
In Manitoba and Saskatchewan there are no regulations governing the distance a well has to be from a dwelling or property line, but we recommend you check the local bylaws. We recommend that wells be located at away from septic tank and field at least (b) no closer than 15m (50 feet)to a drilled water well equipped with a casing to a depth of not less than 6 m (20 feet) below ground level. Or (c) nocloser than 30 m (100 feet) to a spring or water well other than described in clause (b)
How much water do I need?
Over a 24-hour period only a fraction of a gallon per minute (GPM) is required, however at peak times it is good to have at least 5 GPM or if available.
Do we do the well hook-up and septic tank?
We specialize in water well drilling and installing commercial pumps and pitless units, etc. Domestic well hook-ups including pump, installation and septic tanks are done by plumbing contractors.
Will we need to install a water softener?
Most well water in Manitoba and Saskatchewan is hard and will need to be softened as desired.
What is a well screen and will we need one?
A well screen is essentially a stainless steel filter and is required in areas where water is obtained from a sand or gravel aquifer. These come in many lengths and filtering rates. The driller will determine the optimum slot size and length required when analyzing the geological materials encountered while drilling.
Where should the well go on the property?
Ideally, wells should be located on higher ground away from a dwelling, but within a reasonable distance so that it is always accessible. We also recommend that wells be located at least 30ft. from any septic tank and 50ft. from any septic field. Keep in mind that the water lines will need to be trenched into the home, as well as any future plans for expansions of the building. Wells should not be next to tree rooting areas or gardens where pesticides and fertilizers are used frequently.
Why is my well not the same depth as my neighbour's?
Wells are often the same depth range in an area but not always. There is no absolute.
Will there be a big mess?
Unfortunately there is always a mess. Only the degree varies. It is the customers responsibility to ensure adequate drainage and to perform clean up as required after the drilling.
Are there grants available?
No, not in Manitoba, in Saskatchewan contact the local district office. Manitoba Hydro offers assistance on Ground Source Heating Systems. As grants vary from time to time, its is best to contact these sources directly for the most up to date information.
What is the purpose of grouting the casing?
Grouting the casing helps prevent surface contaminants from entering an aquifer. In flowing Artesian wells it prevents water from migrating to the surface beside the casing. When a well is drilled, the hole is larger than the casing. This gap is called the annular space and grout is used to seal this void The methods of grouting are Cement Grout and Bentonite Grout which is a slurry of specialized expanding clays.
How long will my well last and how long is my warranty?
While there is no absolute, most wells last from 20 to 75 years. Our wells are covered by a 1-year warranty.
Should water be tested?
To ensure that the well and plumbing system is safe, all new wells should be tested after the well has been hooked up and the system has been chlorinated. For details on testing you can contact:
ALS Laboratory Group
Winnipeg, MB.
Phone (204) 255-9720 Toll free 1-800-607-7555
Do you drill in winter?
Winter drilling is dependent on the weather. We can drill in milder tempatures, but as it gets colder, the ability to work with water becomes increasingly difficult to impossible as the mercury drops.
Ontario Ministry of Environment related information: