What type of pipe is best for well water?

One of the most prevalent and important uses of piping in our construction and infrastructure is for water supply, an application that requires a piping material that can perform in hot and cold temperatures, resists corrosion and leaking, and is free of harmful chemicals. For underground water supply lines, it’s essential to have a system that can endure varying soil and environmental conditions while being installed appropriately for the location.

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Choosing the Right Pipe for Underground Water Supply

The best type of pipe for transporting underground water depends on various factors such as installation site, local regulations, and specific application requirements. Each option has its pros and cons, making this decision highly contextual.

Below, we explore several commonly used materials for underground water pipes, discussing their performance characteristics, advantages, and downsides.

1. Copper

Copper piping has a long-standing reputation in plumbing and water supply applications due to its resistance to corrosion and ability to maintain water quality. It can handle high temperatures and pressures, and is recyclable. However, its rigidity and higher cost in comparison to other options may limit its application.

2. Cast Iron

While cast iron piping sees continued use in some water transport systems, it is mostly part of older infrastructures. Though it possesses heat resistance and noise-dampening qualities, cast iron is less suitable for modern underground water supply due to its corrosion vulnerability, compromising water quality and leading to leaks and breaks.

3. Galvanized Steel / Lead

Historically, galvanized steel and lead pipes have been used in water transport, but they pose significant risks due to their propensity to corrode. Corrosion can introduce hazardous substances into the water supply, highlighting alarming cases such as the Flint water crisis.

4. PVC

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most widely used piping materials and can be appropriate for underground water supply in certain contexts. It is generally affordable, reliable, and durable, exhibiting rigidity and corrosion resistance with a lifespan exceeding 100 years.

PVC piping can be connected using threaded fittings or solvent welding. A newer variant, Fusible PVC®, uses a specialized thermal butt fusion process similar to that utilized for HDPE pipes.

However, the use of PVC for transporting potable water is restricted in certain regions due to concerns about chemical leaching. Despite currently meeting American Water Works Association (AWWA) standards for potable water, some states limit its use to non-potable scenarios such as underground irrigation.

5. HDPE

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes are an excellent option for underground water lines, primarily due to their unique connection method. Rather than relying on joints, which are prone to leaks, or adhesives that may deteriorate, HDPE pipes are fused together using a thermal butt fusion technique. This process securely bonds pipes end-to-end with high heat, creating a seamless connection. With a lifespan exceeding 100 years, HDPE pipes are exceptionally durable.

HDPE's flexibility enhances its ability to adapt to changes in the environment, making it more resilient against shifting soils or seismic activities. This characteristic also allows for flexible installation methods like trenchless techniques.

In contrast to other pipe materials, HDPE can be installed in various ways, making it particularly versatile for underground applications. Techniques such as sliplining or horizontal directional drilling can sometimes provide the most efficient and cost-effective installation solutions.

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Best Pipe Materials for Well Pump Configuration

While opinions may vary, consider the following setup:

A 200PSI black poly water pipe connected to a pitless adapter (in a freezing climate, well casing exits below ground), alongside a 160PSI black poly waterpipe leading to the house with a filter and pressure tank. Here, plain poly is recommended without any advanced branding, specifically the NSF-PW (National Sanitation Foundation Potable Water) rated basic well poly, which is commonly used across the Northeastern USA in well applications. The choice for 200PSI was made due to the well's depth of 300 feet, considering the elevated pressure required to pump water to the surface.

As for steel pipe? That may be outdated at this point. PVC often shatters too easily for outside use, especially when exposed to sunlight.

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