Evaluating an Old Well for Irrigation Use

Test Depth, Yield, and Water Quality Before Investing

To assess a capped steel pipe as a potential irrigation well:

1. Static Water Level: Lower a weighted string; measure from top of pipe to water. >25 ft = deep well (requires submersible pump).
2. Yield Test: Lower an air hose to bottom, inject air, and time how long to fill a 5-gal bucket. 6–8+ GPM = viable for irrigation.
3. Water Quality: Red/orange tint indicates iron—may stain hardscapes.

If yield is insufficient or quality poor, seal the well with dry concrete to protect groundwater.