Have you ever considered installing a bore water system in your WA property?
Western Australians rely on various water sources for their homes, from watering the garden to showering and providing drinking water.
Along with direct rainwater and surface water in reservoirs, a smaller portion comes from groundwater. Also known as bore water, this water is accessed by drilling underground. Whilst not always suitable for drinking and showering, bore water is often used as a cost-effective solution for maintaining gardens on Perth properties.
Bore water is also a valuable resource for many West Australians living in rural areas with limited other water sources.
If you want to learn more about bore water and if it’s suitable for use in your Perth home, read on for additional information and how you can have a water bore system installed.
What Is Bore Water, and How Does a Bore Work?
The terms “bore water” and “groundwater” are often used interchangeably, with a bore or narrow hole used to extract groundwater resources.
When a hole is drilled into the earth using specialised equipment, this water can be used for irrigation, gardening, and other purposes. Depending on the final purity of the water, it can even be used for general household use.
While installing a bore water system does require an initial investment (which may increase the value of your property), the ongoing use of bore water is free.
Bore water comes from fallen rain that has seeped into the ground. This water is stored underground between soil and rocks, in bodies of water known as “aquifers.” The water is brought to the surface using a bore, with multiple units sometimes connected to boost water quantity.
Bore Water Quality
The availability and quality of bore water depend on the surrounding environment. Generally speaking, water from deeper, contained aquifers is better than water from shallow, unconfined aquifers.
Geological characteristics also affect quality, with most water suitable for irrigation but only some suitable for household use. If bore water is particularly salty or mineral-heavy, it requires treatment.
Groundwater is always treated before drinking, as it often contains heavy metals, bacteria, and other contaminants.
Bore Water System Installation
If you want to get a bore water system installed in WA, it’s important to work with trusted experts. Installing a working system involves the following steps:
1. Site Assessment
Before drilling, it’s important to hire a professional to assess your property. Bore water is very location-dependent, and you need to find the best spot. Bore water experts balance several things to find the ideal entry point, including soil type, water depth, and aquifer size.
Compliance is another important issue, with bore water professionals knowing how to work with local WA regulations.
You may also like: Garden Bores – Frequently asked questions (WA Gov Website).
2. Drilling
Specialised equipment is needed to create a borehole and drill for water. The depth of the hole depends on the size, location, and depth of the aquifer.
Drilling is the first stage of installation, and dedicated casing is also needed. Not only does this prevent the borehole from collapsing, but it also helps to keep contaminants out.
3. Building the Bore
Before you can access water, you need to create a pump system. Bore water needs to be extracted, with submersible or centrifugal pumps used depending on the depth of the water source.
The water pump is connected to surrounding irrigation infrastructure, including a dedicated control system to regulate water flow.
If you’re unsure whether a water bore is suitable for your home, contact Precision Drilling Australia.
Bore Water Regulations in Western Australia
In WA, bore drilling is regulated by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER). Licensing is required for anyone located within a proclaimed groundwater area who uses a bore to irrigate 0.2 hectares or more.
There are also water allocation limits, along with irrigation schedules in some parts of the state.
Install A Water Bore in Your Perth Home
If you want to have a bore installed in WA, it’s vital to work with licensed professionals. At Precision Drilling, we combine advanced equipment with local expertise. We know how to find bore water on your property, and we understand environmental regulations in WA. Please contact our team to learn more.
