How to Winterize a Well and Borehole

Why Winterize a Well and Borehole

The water source itself does not require any special care during the winter, but it can become contaminated with polluted water and the water system can be damaged by frost.

Water from melting snow and rain brings a high amount of impurities, which accumulate in the well and borehole. Deposited impurities can significantly affect the yield of the spring and when water is pumped again, it can damage the pump.

Once water freezes and turns into ice, it expands. If it is in the water pipes or pump at that time, the material will crack due to the great force of the ice, practically tearing the pipes and pump from the inside. When the ice melts, water will seep into the surroundings (floors, walls, etc.). In such a case, you may return to your cottage to find the unpleasant surprise of a flooded house and damaged walls.

How to Winterize a Well and Borehole

1. Disconnect and winterize the pump. Remove the submersible pump from the borehole/well and winterize other components of the water system (water distribution if not placed at sufficient depth, water meter, dry run protection, etc.). Drain the water from the hand pump.  

2. Repair any cracks in the above-ground part of the well/borehole.

3. Secure the well/borehole with a wide concrete collar on the surface around the casing, which also serves as waterproof covering. Check the cover and repair any cracks and leaks. 

4. Insulate the concrete collar, preferably with polystyrene or other suitable insulation. It should have an additional waterproof layer (such as thicker plastic sheeting) and should be sufficiently strong and weighted down to prevent damage from wind and snow.  

How to Winterize the Pump

Almost all pumps, whether submersible pumps for boreholes, submersible pumps for wells or self-priming pumps or domestic waterworks, are not frost-resistant. If you pump water all year round, it must be stored at a sufficient depth where water does not freeze. If the pump is not used during the winter and is located in an area where temperatures drop below freezing, it is necessary to winterize it. Otherwise, the pump may be damaged, its lifespan is shortened and it may even lead to complete destruction of the pump.

Disconnect the pump from electricity and if it is stored in a well or borehole, remove it. Drain the water from it and store it in a safe place where it does not freeze. The exact procedure for draining water from the pump varies for different types of pumps based on their construction, so follow the instructions for your pump.

What Else to Remember?

To prevent damage to the water system, do not forget about other elements:

• close the main water supply and secure it against accidental reopening

• drain the water distribution

• winterize the irrigation system

• winterize and clean water filters

• winterize the water meter

• leave valves and taps half-open, or replace them with frost-resistant versions (these can remain closed and prevent unintentional water pumping) 

How to Start Pumping Water Again?

Wait for suitable weather before resuming water pumping. In spring, temperatures still drop below freezing, so it is good to first ensure that outdoor conditions are such that water in the system will not freeze.

First, check everything to ensure there is no damage to the water pipes, well, or borehole. Before pumping water, clean the well or borehole, also clean the pump and perform its maintenance. If the water from the source is to be potable, it is advisable to have it tested as well.