Using groundwater for your water supply — more flexibility for your home
The dream of owning a house in the countryside — but there is a problem: there is no connection to the public water supply. Even holiday homes or weekend homes often lack their own water supply. If you do not take action yourself, you may end up without water. In addition to private water supply, groundwater can be used as a supplementary source, for example for garden irrigation. However, this depends on local conditions, technical requirements and water quality requirements, as well as suitable system separation.
Many people ask themselves the same questions: Where does the water come from? Who builds a well? Which pump is the right one? Who can help with the installation?
Carefully selected pumps form the technical foundation for your private water supply. Whether from your own well or borehole, if they are correctly matched to the local conditions and your water demand, they reliably deliver water to the desired draw-off points. Regular maintenance supports safe, long-term operation.
Water supply from your own source: simply explained
The water source - the basis of your water supply
At the heart of the system is a natural water source. A well, whether dug or drilled, provides access to groundwater from deeper underground. In some regions, there are also natural springs where water rises naturally to the surface. Rainwater can also be collected; however, without the necessary testing and treatment, it is not suitable as drinking water and should only be used for appropriate applications such as garden irrigation.
Groundwater from your own well can be used for various purposes around the house and garden. It is important to ensure that the water can be used legally and that enough water of the required quality is available.
The pump – a key component of the system
Since the water is located underground, a pump is needed to bring it to the surface. Depending on the depth of the water source, two types of pump are used:
- Surface-mounted pumps, in other words self-priming pumps, in the house or in a utility room. The actual suction head depends on the model, the elevation and the installation conditions.
- Submersible pumps are installed directly in the well or borehole. They are sized for greater depths and pump the water upwards, within their specified delivery head and volume flow.
The water is then supplied to the relevant extraction points.
Water distribution – the right pressure throughout the house
To ensure that water reaches every point where it is needed, the system provides the right water pressure at the extraction points. An integrated or separate pressure tank keeps water under pressure and can reduce frequent pump start-ups. Speed-controlled pumps automatically adjust their output to current demand, helping to maintain consistent water pressure even when demand changes.
Maintenance and operation – reliable supply over the long term
Regular checks and proper maintenance help to ensure that your groundwater supply continues to operate reliably:
- Filters should be checked regularly, depending on water quality and usage, and cleaned or replaced if necessary.
- The pump should be inspected and maintained regularly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- For outdoor installations, suitable frost protection helps to prevent damage caused by low temperatures.
Find a qualified installer nearby!
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about water supply using groundwater
Who can help with building a well for the water supply?
The following specialists can help with well construction:
Well contractor / specialist company: Handles design, drilling and installation.
Water authorities (e.g. county administrative office): Provides information on permit requirements and protected areas.
Water laboratory: Tests the water quality in the case of a private water supply.
Installer: Connects the well to the water distribution system.
Tip: Construction and use often require prior notification or approval. Please check with the relevant authority.
What kind of pump do I need for my house or garden?
Choosing the right pump depends on the application. Self-priming domestic water systems are suitable for supplying water from a source up to approximately 8 metres deep. They are installed above ground and draw water through a suction line.
If the water source is deeper, a submersible pump is the better choice. It is installed directly in the well or borehole and reliably pumps water even over greater heights and distances. Ask your installer for advice.
How do I determine the right output for my pump?
The required pump output depends on two factors: the required water volume and the required pressure. The pump pressure is determined by the suction head or well depth, the pressure losses in the water distribution system, and the pressure required at the extraction points.
For standard use, domestic water systems and pumps with a power output of 400 watts are often sufficient. However, if you are irrigating a large property, using multiple extraction points at the same time or need higher pressure, you should choose a more powerful model.
What is the difference between a surface-mounted pump and a submersible pump?
Surface-mounted pumps are installed outside the water source, for example in a utility room or protective shaft. They draw water through a pipe and are typically sized for a maximum suction head of about 8 metres.
Submersible pumps, by contrast, are installed directly in the water, for example deep in a well or in a storage tank. They are the better choice when the water source is deeper or when longer pumping distances are required.
