In the past, contractors avoided construction sites with shallow groundwater since they posed significant challenges in project implementation. However, advancements in technology gave birth to dewatering pump systems, giving contractors reprieve. Notably, dewatering pumps remove ground or surface water, enabling easy excavation and installation of foundation footings. That said, dewatering pump systems are only effective and efficient if installed correctly. This article highlights essential factors to consider before installing a dewatering pump.
Ground Stability
When you install and turn a dewatering pump on, the amount of water discharged depends on the number of wellpoints used and the amount of underground water. Thus, it is critical to first ascertain the ground's stability before installing a dewatering pump. The reason is that pumping water on unstable ground, such as areas prone to soil erosion, poses a risk to workers and equipment since the water might wash away large chunks of land. One strategy that experienced contractors use to dewater an unstable land is to construct reinforced channels. The dewatering channels are protected by either vegetation or wooded buffers. It ensures that the rest of the unstable ground around a project site is dry and safe.
Groundwater Content
It is wrong to install dewatering pumps and begin the pumping process without testing groundwater content. Unfortunately, some inexperienced contractors ignore this step, assuming that all groundwater is free of pollutants. However, nothing could be further from the truth, and such ignorance can cost you dearly. It is because pumping out contaminated water, and directing it to another area amounts to pollution. Therefore, before installing a dewatering pump, ensure that you test groundwater for pollutants, such as oil, grease, and other chemical products. If the results are positive for these contaminants, you must use an oil/water separator with a dewatering pump. It ensures that your dewatering pump system only discharges uncontaminated groundwater on-site.
Weather Conditions
A dewatering pump works best when the water infiltration rate is at its maximum and groundwater is moving fast. Unfortunately, a dewatering pump's infiltration rate is reduced significantly during heavy rains, rendering the equipment ineffective. It can be attributed to the fact that rains refill underground water reservoirs, making the dewatering process a zero-sum game. Therefore, it is essential that contractors study weather conditions and only install dewatering pumps when confident that it will be a dry day. If the weather forecast indicates looming heavy rains, delay a dewatering pump system installation until the skies clear.
Contact a dewatering pump installation service to learn more.