Is Installing a Borehole a Sustainable Solution for Homes, Businesses and Industry?

Nov 30, 2023

Gathering a wealth of information on whether having a borehole is worth the initial cost outlay may leave you with more questions than answers. We are passionate about providing communities, commerce and industries with sustainable water solutions and delve into some pros and cons for you to make an informed decision on this long-term investment.

Why Have a Borehole as an Alternative Water Source?

Firstly, it is important to understand why having access to borehole water will soon become a necessity. Continuous population growth, excessive drought in many areas, intermittent rainfall and failing infrastructure are some of the main reasons why many homes and businesses are turning towards alternative water supplies. A borehole can be used as grey water or as your main water supply which greatly alleviates the burden that is currently being placed on the mains supply.

 

The Pros of Using an Alternative Water Source

  1. Long-term affordability

The cost involved may seem steep to begin with. However, when you factor in the long-term savings, especially with the ongoing increases in municipal tariffs, the return on your investment will be worth every penny spent.

  1. Access to water when you need it

You no longer need to limit your water use or be restricted to the monthly kilolitres dictated to by municipalities. Having a borehole gives you ample access to water for irrigation and other non-potable uses such as flushing toilets.

  1. Off-grid possibilities

It is the most common way of moving water supplies off-grid. Tapping into groundwater can supply an entire household or business and top up water storage tanks. We can fit tanks, filtration and install the necessary piping enabling you to be completely self-sustained.

  1. The perfect business solution

A borehole allows businesses to be more self-sufficient as you control your water supply. In terms of ongoing costs, it doesn’t require much maintenance making it a financial asset that will deliver many years of successful production.

If you are in any doubt as to whether such an installation is a sustainable solution, then keep in mind that there is an estimated 70 million litres of treated, drinkable water lost daily in South Africa due to substandard, leaking infrastructure.

 

Factors to Keep in Mind

If the purpose is for more than greywater use, then the following factors must be considered before the installation:

  1. Purification

Intersecting a water table gives you water that is fresh and clean, however, there are no guarantees that there aren’t contaminants in the groundwater source. Submitting a sample of the water to a laboratory determines whether water purification systems need to be installed.

  1. Finite water supply

It is crucial to understand that a borehole isn’t infinite especially if used irresponsibly. Relying on groundwater means that the source needs to be replenished naturally. In the long run, the water levels may be negatively impacted especially if there is increased borehole activity in the area.

 

Environmental Implications

As safe and sustainable as using a borehole is, if responsible practices are not adhered to before and during drilling it can have a significant impact on the groundwater being abstracted. Excessive extraction of a water table adversely impacts the local biodiversity and ecology which has long-term repercussions on wildlife habitats. Aquifers must be drawn from responsibly. Insist on working with a drilling company that carries out the necessary geophysical surveys and yield tests.

 

Specialist Borehole Drilling Services

At Aqua Boreholes, we ensure that all the necessary professionals get involved in the drilling process to ensure the long-term sustainability of your installation. Our combined years of experience in the industry as well as a skilled team of artisans allow us to custom design your filtration system to your specifications. Contact us to arrange a site visit today.

 

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