Drought and water wells are directly related. When rainfall decreases over long periods, aquifers receive less natural recharge and the groundwater level can drop. This can lead to reduced flow, greater strain on the pump or even the need to review the depth of the well.

In Spain, and especially in areas such as Catalonia, more and more property owners see water wells as a way to secure their water supply. However, in a drought context, it is important that the well is properly drilled, legalised and maintained.

Main effects of drought on a well

Drop in the water table

One of the most common effects is a drop in the water table. This means that groundwater is found at a greater depth. If the well is not deep enough or the pump is not properly installed, it may start to collect less water.

Reduced flow rate

A well that previously supplied water consistently may start to provide fewer litres per hour or take longer to recover. In these cases, it is advisable to carry out a technical inspection or a flow test to determine the actual available flow.

Increased pump wear

When the water level drops, the pump has to work under more demanding conditions. This can increase electricity consumption, reduce system efficiency and accelerate equipment wear.

Consequences in daily use

Drought can directly affect the use of a well in homes, rural properties, agricultural holdings or industrial facilities.

The most common problems are reduced water availability, loss of pressure, increased energy consumption, air entering the system or frequent pump stoppages.

That is why, when a well loses performance, it is not advisable to wait until the problem becomes more serious. A timely inspection can help identify whether the cause is the water level, the pump, accumulated sediment or the water catchment itself.

What to do if a well loses flow

If a well starts to provide less water, it does not always mean that it has dried up permanently. Before making any decisions, it is advisable to assess the general condition of the installation.

The most common actions are checking the water level, inspecting the submersible pump, carrying out a flow test, cleaning the well if there is sediment and assessing whether deepening the catchment is viable.

Each well responds differently depending on the terrain, depth, type of aquifer and how the water is used.

How to reduce the impact of drought

Although we cannot control the lack of rainfall, we can reduce its effects on the well.

To do this, it is important to optimise water consumption, inspect the pumping system, carry out periodic maintenance and adapt the use of the well to the actual available flow.

In some cases, when the current catchment is no longer sufficient, it may be necessary to assess deepening the well or drilling a new one.

Water wells in Catalonia during drought

In Catalonia, water wells are an increasingly valued solution for homes, rural properties, agricultural holdings and industries seeking greater independence in their water supply.

However, drilling or modifying a well requires a technical study and compliance with current regulations. That is why it is important to work with a specialised company that can provide advice from drilling to pump installation, legalisation and maintenance.

At Perforacions i Bombes Barcelona S.L., we have more than 25 years of experience in drilling, maintaining and repairing water wells in Catalonia.

Conclusion

Drought can cause a drop in the water table, reduced flow, higher energy consumption and increased pump wear.

With good planning, periodic maintenance and technical advice, it is possible to improve well performance and prevent more serious problems.

If your well has lost flow, you notice lower pressure or you want to assess the construction of a water well in Catalonia, we can study your case and offer the most suitable solution.