Frequently Asked Questions About Water Wells & Pumps
At Burrows Water Well Drilling & Service, we know that well systems can seem complex—especially if it’s your first time installing or servicing one. That’s why we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions we receive from homeowners, farmers, and business owners across Hiram, Portage County, and Northeast Ohio.
Whether you're planning a new well or dealing with an urgent repair, these FAQs will help you better understand how your water system works—and how we can help.
General Water Well Questions
How deep will my well need to be?
Well depth depends on your location, geology, and water table. In Portage County and surrounding areas, most residential wells range from 50 to 300 feet deep.
Do I need a permit to drill a water well?
Yes. In Ohio, permits are required for new well installations. Don’t worry—our team handles all necessary permits and ensures compliance with local health and environmental codes.
How long does it take to drill a new well?
Most wells can be drilled and fully installed within 1 to 2 days, depending on soil conditions and system complexity.
Can you drill in the winter?
Yes. We offer year-round drilling, including cold-weather installations with buried tanks or freeze-proof pump systems.
Pump System & Pressure Questions
What type of pump will I need?
Most homes use a submersible pump, which is efficient and installed deep inside the well. Larger systems or commercial setups may benefit from variable speed constant pressure systems.
What is a constant pressure system?
This modern pump system maintains steady water pressure—even when multiple taps are running. It’s ideal for larger homes, farms, or businesses with varying water demands.
Why is my water pressure low?
Low pressure can result from pump wear, pressure tank issues, clogged filters, or a drop in well yield. We can inspect and diagnose the cause quickly.
How long do well pumps last?
A well-maintained submersible pump typically lasts 8–15 years. Regular inspections help extend its life and catch issues early.
Repair & Emergency Questions
What should I do if I suddenly have no water?
First, check your breaker or power supply. If the issue isn’t electrical, call us right away. We offer emergency service for urgent well and pump failures.
Can you service wells you didn’t install?
Absolutely. We work on all types of systems—regardless of who installed them originally.
Do you offer same-day repairs?
Yes. We keep many parts in stock and offer same-day service whenever possible, especially for no-water emergencies.
How do I know if my pressure tank is failing?
Signs include short cycling (frequent pump start/stop), air in faucets, or weak water flow. We can test and replace faulty tanks.
Filtration & Water Quality Questions
What kind of filtration system do I need?
It depends on your water. After testing for iron, hardness, pH, and odor, we’ll recommend a tailored system such as an iron filter, softener, or UV treatment.
Can you test my water?
Yes. We offer basic on-site water testing and can assist with lab testing for detailed results.
Why does my water smell like rotten eggs?
That odor is usually caused by hydrogen sulfide gas, common in groundwater. We install filters specifically designed to remove it.
Do I need filtration if my water looks clean?
Even clear water can contain minerals or bacteria. We recommend at least basic testing to determine if treatment is needed.
System Maintenance Questions
How often should I service my well system?
We recommend annual inspections to check pressure, flow rate, electrical components, and water quality.
What’s included in a maintenance visit?
Typical service includes testing pressure, checking pump function, inspecting the pressure tank, reviewing water quality, and inspecting filters if installed.
How long does a filtration system last?
With regular maintenance, most filtration systems last 10–15 years. Filter media and cartridges may need replacing every 6–12 months.
Service Area & Scheduling Questions
What areas do you serve?
We’re based in Hiram, OH and proudly serve Portage County and 10 surrounding Northeast Ohio counties. Unsure if you’re in range? Give us a call—we’re happy to help.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes. We provide on-site consultations and free estimates for drilling, pump installations, filtration systems, and repairs.
How do I schedule a visit or inspection?
Just call or email us. We’re available 7 days a week and flexible with scheduling to fit your needs.
Still Have Questions?
We’re always here to help. If you didn’t see your question listed, feel free to reach out—we’ll provide honest answers and clear recommendations based on your situation.