Sand Point Wells: The Off-Grid Water Solution for Survivalists

Hey there, fellow survivalist, Jack here! 

Are you looking for a reliable source of water that won’t break the bank or require a degree in drilling engineering? Look no further than the sand point well! This type of well is simple to build, relatively inexpensive and can provide you with a steady stream of water for all your off-grid and survival needs. 

In this article, I will dive into what a sand point well is, the tools and materials you will need, the pros and cons of sand point wells, and even give you a step-by-step guide on how to build one. So, grab your hard hat, and let’s get started!

Ready to build your own sand point well? Here’s how:

1. Determine the location of the well
2. Gather materials such as a sand point, drive cap, drive pipe, and screen
3. Drive the sand point into the ground
4. Install the drive pipe and screen
5. Install the pump and connect it to a water storage tank

What is a Sand Point Well?

Unlike traditional wells, which require drilling or excavation, sand point wells are driven into the ground using a narrow, hollow pipe with a pointed tip called a sand point. 

Once the sand point has been driven deep enough into the ground, a screen is installed to filter out any sediment or debris. Water is then pumped from the well using a hand pump, electric pump, or solar-powered pump.

Things You Should Consider When Building Your Sand Point Well

Choosing the Right Sand Point:

When choosing a sand point, it’s important to select one that is the right size and made of high-quality materials. 

The sand point should be long enough to reach the desired depth, and the diameter of the pipe should be appropriate for the size of the pump you’ll be using. Look for sand points made of durable materials, such as stainless steel or galvanized steel, to ensure they will hold up over time.

Selecting the Right Screen:

The screen is an important component of the sand point well, as it keeps sediment and debris out of the water supply. When selecting a screen, look for one that is made of durable materials and has a mesh size appropriate for the type of sediment you’ll be dealing with. For example, if you have fine sand in your area, you’ll need a screen with a smaller mesh size to keep the sand out of the water.

Driving the Sand Point:

Driving the sand point into the ground can be a challenging task, especially if you’re working with hard or rocky soil. It’s important to use a sledgehammer or well driver that is heavy enough to create the force needed to drive the sand point into the ground. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, to avoid injury while driving the sand point.

Installing the Pump:

Installing the pump on top of the drive pipe requires some care and attention to ensure a tight seal.

When attaching the pump to the drive pipe, be sure to use a pipe wrench to tighten the connections securely.

Check the connections for leaks before turning on the pump to ensure that everything is properly installed.

Maintenance and Repair:

Like any other component of a water system, sand point wells require regular maintenance and occasional repair. It’s important to keep the well clean and free of debris, and to check the screen periodically to ensure that it’s not clogged with sediment. If you notice a drop in water pressure or quality, it may be necessary to replace the screen or perform other repairs on the well.

How To Build A Sand Point Well: Step By Step Guide

Building a sand point well is a simple process that can be completed in just a few hours. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow:

1. Determine the Location:

The first step in building a sand point well is to determine the location for the well. It’s important to choose a location that is free of any potential contaminants, such as septic systems or chemical storage areas. Additionally, you’ll want to choose a location that has loose, sandy soil, as this will make driving the sand point easier.

2. Gather Materials:

Once you’ve chosen the location for your well, you’ll need to gather your materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sand point: This is the narrow, hollow pipe with a pointed tip that you’ll use to drive the well.
• Drive cap: This is the cap that will be placed on top of the sand point to protect it during installation.
• Drive pipe: This is the pipe that will be used to drive the sand point into the ground.
• Screen: This is the filter that will be installed at the bottom of the sand point to keep out sediment and debris.
• Pump: This is the device that will be used to pump water from the well.

3. Drive the Sand Point:

Now that you have your materials, it’s time to start driving the sand point into the ground.

Begin by attaching the drive cap to the top of the sand point. Next, attach the drive pipe to the top of the drive cap. Using a sledgehammer or a well driver, begin driving the sand point into the ground. Continue driving the sand point until it is at the desired depth of between 20-50 feet.

4. Install the Drive Pipe and Screen:

Once the sand point is at the desired depth, it’s time to install the drive pipe and screen. Begin by removing the drive cap from the sand point. Next, attach the screen to the bottom of the sand point. The screen should fit tightly around the sand point to prevent sediment from entering the well. Once the screen is in place, attach the drive pipe to the top of the sand point.

5. Install the Pump:

Finally, it’s time to install the pump. The type of pump you choose will depend on your needs and budget.

Hand pumps are a simple and cost-effective option, while electric pumps and solar-powered pumps require more installation and may be more expensive.

Once you’ve chosen your pump, connect it to the drive pipe and begin pumping water from your new sand point well!

How Deep Can You Go With A Sand Point Well?

Ah, the age-old question of depth. Well, it depends on the size of your sand point and the type of soil you’re working with. Generally, most sand point wells are driven between 20-50 feet into the ground. However, it’s important to note that the deeper you go, the more difficult it becomes to drive the sand point, and the more expensive it becomes to install the well.

Can You Drink Sand Point Well Water?

Well, it’s safe to say that sand point well water is not your typical beverage of choice. But, as strange as it may seem, drinking water from a sand point well can actually be a perfectly safe and refreshing experience.

Filtered and Purified by Nature!

As if by magic, sand point wells are designed to extract water from an underground aquifer, which is essentially a layer of rock or sediment that holds water. As the water trickles down through this layer, it is naturally filtered and purified by the soil and rock, removing many impurities and contaminants. 

So, if you’re looking for a water source that’s natural and free from harsh chemicals and additives, a sand point well might just be your cup of tea (or glass of water, rather).

Of course, there are some factors that can affect the quality of the water from a sand point well. For instance, if the well is not properly constructed or maintained, it can become contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or other nasties. 

But fear not, my intrepid readers! With a little common sense and some basic precautions, you can ensure that your sand point well water is as pure and clean as a mountain stream.

Sand Point Well Maintenance

Firstly, it’s important to have your well water tested periodically for contaminants. Think of it as a routine checkup for your water supply. Testing should be performed by a certified laboratory that can provide accurate and reliable results. If any issues are found, it’s important to address them promptly, before they turn into bigger problems.

Secondly, maintaining your sand point well is key to keeping your water supply clean and safe. This means keeping the area around the well clean and free of debris, ensuring that the screen is properly installed and functioning, and making repairs as needed. It’s a bit like taking care of a garden, but with less weeding and more plumbing.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But wait, can’t sand point well water be gritty and full of, well, sand?” Not necessarily! The screen at the bottom of the well is designed to keep sand and other sediments out of the water supply. And if you do find that your water is a bit sandy, there are steps you can take to remedy the situation. For example, you can install a sediment filter or let the water settle before drinking it.

Pros and Cons of Sand Point Wells:

Now, let’s look at the pros and cons of sand point wells.

Pros:

• Cost-effective: Sand point wells are relatively inexpensive compared to traditional wells, making them an excellent option for those on a budget.
• Easy to install: With a little bit of elbow grease, a sand point well can be installed in just a few hours.
• Low maintenance: Sand point wells require very little maintenance, making them a great option for off-grid living.
• Energy-efficient: If you opt for a hand pump or solar-powered pump, you won’t need to rely on electricity to pump water from your well.

Cons:

• Limited water supply: Because sand point wells are relatively shallow, they may not provide a sufficient amount of water for larger households or farms.
• Location-dependent: Sand point wells are best suited for areas with loose, sandy soil. If you’re working with clay or rock, a sand point well may not be the best option for you.
• Vulnerable to contamination: While the screen in a sand point well does filter out sediment and debris, it’s important to note that the well is still vulnerable to contamination from surface water or other sources.
• How much does it cost to put in a sand point well?
• The cost of installing a sand point well can vary depending on a number of factors, including the depth of the well, the type of pump you choose, and the cost of materials. However, on average, you can expect to spend

Final Thoughts

All in all, sand point well water can be a perfectly safe and refreshing alternative to your typical tap water or bottled water. Just be sure to take the necessary precautions and maintain your well properly, and you’ll be sipping on some of the freshest, most natural water around.

Cheers to that!