Water Well Driller how-to

How to Perform a Pump Test

Tests show how much water a well can deliver.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Tests show how much water a well can deliver. In short: measure; start; measure, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Measure static water level.

  2. Start pumping at a set rate.

  3. Measure drawdown over time.

  4. Record flow.

  5. Measure recovery.

  6. Report yield.

Safety reminders for water well drillers

  • Call 811 and check overhead lines
  • Keep clear of rotating drill pipe
  • Wear PPE and hearing protection
  • Secure loads on rig trucks

Casing · Screen · Grout · Aquifer · Static water level · Drawdown: see the full water well driller glossary.

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