Imagine turning on your tap one morning only to find no water coming out.
Or worse, what if the water is muddy, dirty, or smells strange?
Boreholes, which serve as a key water source for millions of homes, farms, and businesses worldwide, sometimes experience problems.
The good news?
Most of these issues are easy to fix if you know what to look for.
So, whether you’re a seasoned borehole owner or just getting started, this guide will help you understand the common borehole problems and how to fix them.
What is a Borehole, and How Does It Work?
A borehole is a deep, narrow hole drilled into the ground to access groundwater. It draws water from underground aquifers (water-bearing rock layers) and pumps it to the surface.
Boreholes are often fitted with pumps and casing pipes to maintain steady water flow, making them a dependable water source for households, farms, and communities.
But like any piece of equipment, boreholes can have problems.
The key to keeping them working is understanding the issues before they become too serious.
Also read How Groundwater Works
Common Borehole Problems and Solutions
- Sediment Blockage and Water Flow Issues
One of the most common borehole problems is sediment buildup.
Over time, sand, dirt, and small debris can collect in the borehole, clogging the system and reducing the water flow.
This can happen for several reasons—either the borehole wasn’t properly sealed, or the groundwater contains sediment being pumped up.
How to Spot the Problem: If your water pressure drops or looks murky or dirty, you might have sediment buildup. If left unchecked, this problem typically worsens over time.
Solution: To fix this issue, start by cleaning the borehole. A professional borehole cleaner usually removes debris using a high-pressure system or compressed air. In some cases, a gravel pack—a layer of small stones surrounding the borehole casing—can be installed to filter out unwanted sediment.
- Pump Failures is a Common Borehole Problem
Your borehole’s pump is the system’s heart—it pushes water to the surface.
When the pump fails, water stops flowing.
Pumps can fail for various reasons, including normal wear and tear, electrical faults, or the pump running dry due to a low water table.
How to Spot the Problem: If your borehole stops producing water altogether, chances are the pump is to blame. You may also hear strange noises from the pump or notice that the water supply is inconsistent—sometimes it flows, and sometimes it doesn’t.
Solution: If your pump is worn out or faulty, replacing it with a new one is usually the best fix. Regular maintenance checks are also a good idea to catch pump issues early. Installing a dry-run protection switch can prevent the pump from running when there isn’t enough water, extending its lifespan.
- Water Contamination
A less common but serious borehole problem is water contamination. Contaminated water can be dangerous to drink, bathe in, or use for crops.
Contamination can occur if surface water seeps into the borehole or nearby pollutants, like chemicals or waste, enter the water supply.
How to Spot the Problem: Signs of contamination include bad smells, discoloration, or a strange taste in the water. Testing the water for harmful bacteria and chemicals is essential if you suspect contamination.
Solution: Regular water testing can help identify contamination early. If your borehole is contaminated, cleaning it and installing sanitary seals can help. It’s also important to ensure the borehole is far away from potential contamination sources, like septic tanks or chemical storage areas.
Also read Understanding the Average Water Table in Kenya
Preventive Maintenance for Boreholes
Regular borehole maintenance, including periodic inspections, cleaning, and water testing, is key to avoiding these problems.
Most borehole professionals recommend an annual check-up to ensure everything is running smoothly.
Keeping your borehole in good condition will save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.
Also read Importance of Clean Water
Conclusion
Boreholes are a fantastic way to access clean, reliable water, but like any system, they need a little care to stay in top shape.
Whether dealing with sediment buildup, pump failures, or contamination, most problems can be fixed with the right know-how.
Don’t wait until a small issue becomes big—stay on top of borehole maintenance and enjoy a steady water flow for years.
FAQ
How often should a borehole be cleaned?
Boreholes should generally be cleaned every 1 to 2 years, depending on the water quality and use frequency.
What causes a borehole to stop producing water?
The most common reasons include pump failure, sediment blockage, or a drop in the water table.
Can borehole water be contaminated?
Surface water, chemicals, or nearby waste can contaminate boreholes. Regular water testing can help catch contamination early.
What is the lifespan of a borehole pump?
A well-maintained pump can last 5 to 10 years, depending on usage and maintenance.
How much does it cost to repair a borehole?
Repairs can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the issue and the type of repair needed.
Why is my borehole water brown?
Brown water is often a sign of sediment or rust in the system. If this happens, having the borehole inspected and cleaned is a good idea.
Can a borehole dry up completely?
A borehole can run dry if the water table drops or the aquifer is depleted. In some cases, deepening the borehole can help.
Maintaining a borehole can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.
Stay informed and ahead of any potential issues by subscribing to our newsletter.
We’ll send you expert tips, step-by-step guides, and industry updates to help you keep your borehole in top condition.
Don’t miss out—sign up today for practical advice that will save you time and money!
Also read Water Well Maintenance Tips.
Follow Us on Social Media!
Want to stay updated on the latest in borehole drilling and water management in Kenya?
Follow us on our social media platforms for expert tips, customer success stories, and product reviews! Join the conversation on:
Check out boreholeflow.com for product reviews and more tips on managing water resources efficiently.