Are you planning to install a well pump in your home and want to know which one between 1 1/4 vs. 2 well-point options is better? If you’re, this article is for you.
Now, choosing between the 1 1/4 and 2 well points should be based on the depth and diameter of the waterline.
We have discussed this in detail below, including what those who have used both well-point options are saying. So, continue reading.
1 1/4 Vs. 2 Well-Point – The Better Option
Both the 1 1/4 vs. 2 well-point options are good if you want to get a decent number of gallons per minute.
But if you have to choose one, you’ll need to go with the one that offers maximum efficiency.
In that case, we will compare these two in terms of the flow rate and well-depth. And without further ado, let’s get right into it.
Note
A well point is a special type of a well installed using a driving point with a built-in screen fixed to the end of a small-diameter pipe. The pipe is usually 1 1/4 to 2 inches.
Well-point installation usually happens by excavating, pounding, or driving into the water table. This well is generally constructed in a superficial aquifer with sandy soils.
The depth is normally 10-30 feet but sometimes can go further. A suction or dewatering pump may help to pull out water.
Water Depth And Flow Rate
The most reliable way of determining the better choice between 1 1/4 vs. 2 well points options is to compare their efficiency in terms of well-depth and flow rate.
Of course, you’ll want to choose the option that offers a higher flow rate even on a deeper waterline.
Among these two well points, most people agree that the 1 1/4-inch point would make an excellent choice if you’re drilling through 20 to 25 feet deep.
Conversely, the 2-inch point would be better and offers a higher flow rate by jetting 25+ feet deep water.
In other words, the 1 1/4 point wouldn’t give a decent flow rate if drilling more than 25 feet down.
Identifying these two differential features will enable you to choose one that provides maximum efficiency.
Now, let’s try to put things in a clearer perspective for you to understand the difference between 1 1/4 vs. 2 well-point options:
If the water depth is approximately 25 feet maximum, you’ll be better off with the 1 1/4 well point.
But if the water depth is about 25 feet or more, choosing the 2 well-point will be a good idea.
Is The 2 Well-Point Option Better?
Generally, using the 1 1/4 well point is standard to drill and gives you an average flow rate of 2-3 gallons per minute per linear foot in ideal water conditions.
But again, the 2-inch well point is better for getting a higher-water flow rate and clearer water supply.
As we know, you’ll need to go deeper if you want cleaner water – we just mentioned that the 2-inch is more suitable if you’re going more than 25 feet deep.
It allows at least 3 gallons per minute to flow through the screen and casing.
The Technical Bit
Let’s get a bit technical. Suppose you have a 4 feet area. Now, multiply that by 3 gallons (for the 2 well-point) per minute, and you’ll get 12 GPM capacity.
That means the 2-inch well point can guarantee a minimum of 12 gallons per minute of water flow.
On the other hand, the same 4 feet area multiplied by 2-3 GPM gives you 8-12 GPM capacity. That’s to say that the 1 1/4 well point can only guarantee 8 gallons in every minute.
Though there might not be a significant difference in the 1 1/4 vs. 2 well-point (as you can still achieve 12 GPM with the 1 1/4), choosing the 2-inch option may be safer.
It will not compromise the flow rate, and you’re not likely to face any issues in the future.
What Do Users Say About The 1 1/4 Vs. 2 Well-Point Options?
Many people have used the 1 1/4 vs. 2 well-point options. The 1 1/4 is okay, but having a bigger pipe is always good.
It allows a greater flow though it costs more and maybe a little bothersome to install. But if water flow is your major concern, going with the 2-inch option will pay off.
We spoke to one homeowner who told us their 40-year-old 1 1/4 well point went dry last summer.
They figured a 2 well-point drilled a few feet deeper in the same area would resolve the problem. And sure enough, it worked great, and their pump can now draw water again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Water Can I Get From A Well-Point?
A well should give a minimum of 3 gallons per minute for households. However, 8-10GPM would be better, especially if there are several plumbing fixtures in your residence.
If the well is a low water producer, you can often overcome this problem by installing a bigger pressure tank.
How Deep Is A Well-Point?
The depth of a well point is determined by the ground structure and sometimes other factors like the water table.
Typically, drilling between 25-50 feet (from shallow aquifers) would provide sufficient water to irrigate small to medium-sized gardens.
How Long Can A Well Pump Last?
A well pump is essential to ensure a steady flow of fresh and clean water in a home. With the right maintenance, a well pump can serve you for an average of 8-15 years.
Many homeowners report their pumps going for longer – usually between 20 and 30 years!
Can I Put A Well-Point Anywhere?
A well point provides many benefits than a drilled well. One benefit is the cost – Well points are typically less expensive.
You can also install it just about anywhere on your property.
What Kind Of Pipe Do I Use For A Sandpoint Well?
Steel pipe is often used on Sandpoint well because it’s waterproof and can withstand the conditions under the ground for a long time.
As mentioned, the pipe size should be small to medium and not more than 1 1/4 to 2 inches using threaded gaskets.
Conclusion
We hope you can now confidently choose one between 1 1/4 vs. 2 well-point options. It’s critical, particularly when trying to withdraw water from the ground through drilling.
Choosing the correct well point will enable you to achieve better water flow at maximum efficiency.
Most experts recommend using a well point sized 1 1/4 or 2 inches to ensure a decent water supply line. As mentioned, these two are good at extracting water from different depths.
But remember that if the water is more than 25 feet deeper into the ground, using the 2 well-point is better. Otherwise, you can use the 1 1/4 well point as it’s a standard size to drill.
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