60‑Foot Well: Everything You Need to Know

If you need a reliable water source for a garden, a small farm, or a house without city supply, a 60‑foot well can be a solid solution. It’s deep enough to reach the water table in many regions, yet shallow enough to dig with a mini‑drill or a hand auger. Below we break down the steps to build one, keep it running, and avoid common headaches.

How to Build a 60‑Foot Well

First, check local regulations. Some areas require a permit, a set‑back from property lines, or a professional survey. Once you’re clear, locate the spot. Look for low‑lying ground where runoff collects – that’s usually where the water table sits higher.

Next, gather tools. A gasoline‑powered auger or a small rotary drill works best for 60 feet. You’ll also need a sturdy rope, a bucket, a measuring tape, PVC pipe for casing, and a concrete mix for sealing the top.

Start drilling straight down. Keep the auger level and pull out debris regularly; clogged bits slow you down. When you hit water, you’ll see a rise in mud and a gush of liquid. Mark that depth – it’s your water level.

Insert a 4‑inch PVC or steel casing to keep the surrounding soil from collapsing into the hole. Push the casing down as you continue drilling, or pull it up and lower it after you’ve reached the target depth. Once the well is drilled, seal the top with a concrete plug or a well cap to stop surface contaminants from sneaking in.

Finally, choose a pump. For a 60‑foot depth, a shallow‑well jet pump works fine – it sits above the water level and pushes water up. If you want a submersible pump, make sure it’s rated for at least 70 feet to give you a safety margin.

Maintaining Your 60‑Foot Well

Regular upkeep saves you from costly repairs. Start with a water‑quality test once a year. Check for bacteria, iron, and hardness. If the test shows problems, a simple shock chlorination or a filter can fix most issues.

Inspect the well cap and casing annually. Look for cracks, rust, or signs of erosion. A broken cap lets rain, insects, and dirt fall straight into the well, which can affect taste and safety.

Keep the area around the well clean. Store chemicals, fertilizers, and gasoline far away – even a small spill can leach into the ground and pollute your water.

Watch the water level. If it drops suddenly, you might be over‑pumping or the water table could be shifting due to seasonal changes. Reduce usage or add a rainwater catchment system to ease the load.

Every 3‑5 years, have a professional pull a video inspection of the casing. This catches hidden cracks or blockages before they become big problems.

When you notice sputtering, low pressure, or an odd taste, don’t ignore it. Most issues are easy fixes – a clogged filter, a loose pump seal, or a drop in water level. Acting fast keeps your well humming for years.

In short, a 60‑foot well is a manageable project for DIY‑savvy homeowners, but it still demands careful planning, proper equipment, and routine checks. Follow the steps above, stay on top of maintenance, and you’ll enjoy clean, on‑tap water without a monthly bill.