A borehole is a great investment, but many homeowners only focus on installation and forget about ongoing care. With just a few simple habits, you can extend the life of your system and avoid costly repairs.

1. Don’t Run Your Pump Dry

Running a borehole pump without water can damage it within minutes. Make sure you:

• Install a dry-run protection system

• Use a float switch or level sensor

• Avoid excessive pumping during dry seasons

This is one of the most common causes of pump failure.

2. Keep an Eye on Water Pressure

A sudden drop in pressure can indicate:

• A failing pump

• A leak in your system

• A blocked filter

Check your pressure gauge regularly. Catching small issues early can prevent bigger problems.

3. Clean or Replace Filters Often

If your borehole feeds into your home, filters play a critical role.

Dirty filters can:

• Reduce water flow

• Damage appliances

• Affect water quality

A quick check every few months can make a big difference.

4. Listen for Unusual Noises

Your borehole system should run relatively quietly. If you notice:

• Grinding sounds

• Clicking or buzzing

• Frequent on/off cycling

…it’s a sign something isn’t right and should be checked.

5. Use Water Wisely

Even a strong borehole has limits. Overuse can:

• Lower the water table

• Reduce long-term yield

• Increase pump wear

Spread out heavy usage like irrigation and avoid running everything at once.

6. Test Your Water Annually

Water quality can change over time. A yearly test helps ensure it remains safe, especially if used indoors.

Final Tip

Think of your borehole like a car — regular checks and small fixes are far cheaper than major repairs. With proper care, a borehole can reliably supply water for many years, even during tough South African water conditions.