Water well drilling facts and figures

Here are some interesting facts and figures on water and well drilling from our Faribault well drilling experts:

Water

• Water expands by 9% when it freezes
• Only about 1% of all water can be used for all of our needs. The rest is either trapped in ice caps or too salty or undrinkable. 
• The same amount of water is available as when the earth formed. 
• The average person can live for only about a week without water. 
• The average U.S. resident uses about 50 gallons of water per day. 
• The quality of water is influenced by natural factors (rock, gravel, sand, etc.) and pollution (agriculture, aquifer protection, etc.). 
• Approximately half of all household water is used outside for lawn and garden care.
• The bathroom is where the most water is used inside the home.
• The United States consumes twice the rate of other industrialized nations.

Water Well Drilling

• Your well be protected against all types of contamination with a properly sealed cap.
• "Smelly" water is often the result of sulfur, which can also corrode your plumbing. 
• Studies have found most would prefer to have their own private well. 
• A properly constructed well can be an asset to your property. 
• Your well won't go dry from using too much water.
• "Rusty" wells are usually the result of iron/manganese in the groundwater.

Some figures: 

• 1.2 billion: People without access to clean water. 
• 6.8 billion: The number of gallons American flush down the toilet every day. 
• 80: Percentage of fresh water used for irrigation crops and thermoelectric generation. 
• 8.34 pounds: The amount one gallon of water weighs. 
• 4,000: Number of gallons of water evaporated off one acre of a corn field.

Well Drilling: Why NOT To DIY

It's no secret that costs are going up, and it's smart to save money wherever you can. So, instead of hiring professionals, we might instead do the job ourselves to hold on to the cash. Maybe we handwash our car instead of going through an automated one. Or maybe we eat meals at home more instead of going out.

However, there are some things that no matter the cost, we should get a professional to handle. Doctors are a good example. But, what about well drilling? Should you seek out a professional Scott County well drilling company or go it alone? As we discussed a while back in an article, it's better to hire a pro than trying to do it alone:

Accidents can happen when you fix a sink, but a sink is just a tiny percentage when compared to a well. It's wise to be frugal and practical, but you should not skimp when it comes to drilling or repairing your well.

Well drilling take a lot of know how and the right machinery. You'll have to know where to dig, how far to dig, what to do once the well is dug and so on. It might seem easy enough, but there is far more to it than just that digging and "putting in" a well.

Read the entire article: "Well Drilling: Why It's Best to Work with a Well Drilling Company."

Why You Should Jump on the Geothermal Energy Bandwagon

Geothermal is booming. More and more homeowners are choosing to outfit their homes with a geothermal heating and cooling system instead of one powered by traditional energy source. We wrote an article a while back detailing why you should think about jumping on the geothermal bandwagon and noted:

There are even economic benefits to supporting the geothermal movement. As geothermal energy takes off and becomes more used, it could add many jobs to the economy, and encourage economic growth.

It's more imperative, more than ever, that we support our local businesses and industries. The Minneapolis geothermal sector is booming, thanks to a great amount of geothermal energy under the Minnesota surface. By using geothermal energy, you're cutting down your home's energy costs, helping to save the planet and supporting your local economy.

Read the entire article: "Geothermal: Why You Should Hop on the Geothermal Energy Bandwagon."

More Geothermal Facts

Geothermal heating and cooling systems can help turn your home into an energy-efficient abode; one that cuts down on the use of traditional energy, instead opting for the energy that already exists beneath the surface of the earth. But do you know how this energy is created, and where it comes from? Here are some facts about geothermal energy.

Soaking up the sun. The sun, the closest star to earth and the center of our solar system, is constantly transmitting solar energy. The earth's atmosphere absorbs approximately 20% of this energy, while 30% is reflected away. Around 50% of this thermal energy is absorbed by the earth's surface and stored beneath the ground. Traveling just a few feet below the surface of the earth, you'll find a temperature that's consistent nearly year round, thanks to this stored energy. This is what geothermal heating and cooling systems take advantage of.

Highly efficient. Geothermal systems, unlike traditional heating and cooling systems, do not need to burn fossil fuels or large amounts of electricity to operate. Instead, these systems are only moving heat. The amount of electricity needed to run the pump and circulators of a geothermal system is approximately a fifth of the geothermal energy transferred by the system.

Interested in learning more about how Minneapolis geothermal heating and cooling can benefit your home? Contact Hartmann Well Drilling today at (952) 758-2202.

Geothermal Featured in Wall Street Daily

Popular investment blog Wall Street Daily published an article yesterday about geothermal energy and its potential for growth as an alternative energy source. In fact, current system development would add 9 gigawatts of geothermal capacity to the planet. In the past 30 years, the world only managed to add 11 gigawatts. Geothermal is definitely growing in use, evidenced the most by the fact that energy from geothermal sources doubled solar power and wind power combined.

Geothermal heating and cooling systems are experiencing growth, too. These systems, which use the constant temperature beneath the earth's surface to heat water in pipe loops, can help homeowners cut down on traditional energy usage. This keeps more money in your pocket and can help the environment by reducing the output from fossil fuels.

Thinking about having a Minneapolis geothermal heating & cooling system installed in your home? You can get a FREE geothermal estimate from Hartmann by completing our online form. You can also give us a call at (952) 758-2202.

Pros of Geothermal Energy

Traditional energy usage continues to rise, and the cost of fossil fuels has gone up, as well. In a situation like this, any energy that exists naturally and can be harnessed to lower energy bills while still keeping homes comfortable is a welcome development. Fortunately, this very power exists in geothermal energy.

What are some of the benefits of geothermal energy? First off, if you're big on saving the environment, using geothermal energy means the energy you're utilizing is almost completely emissions free. Another is consistency -- geothermal isn't subject to the fluctuations that you might experience with solar power (only available when the sun is out without cloud cover) or wind (which depends on, well, wind). And, unlike fossil fuels, there is a virtually limitless amount of geothermal energy.

Ready to install a geothermal heating and cooling system in your home? Call Minneapolis geothermal company Hartmann Well Drilling today at (952) 758-2202.

Nebraska County Courthouse Sees Big Savings Thanks to Geothermal

Are you on the fence about having a geothermal system installed in your home because you don't know if you'll really see a significant savings in your energy bills? Here's a story that might help convince you.

A courthouse in Gage County, Nebraska was outfitted with a geothermal heating and cooling system in 2009. Prior to that, the County was spending $35,263 a year in energy costs for the courthouse. After the installation of the geothermal system, Gage County was able to cut that amount by an average of $11,400 annually. Over three years, the County will save approximately $34,202.

Hartmann Well Drilling is a Minneapolis geothermal heating and cooling installer that can help you save on your energy bills. Get a free estimate today by calling us at (952) 758-2202.

How long can a geothermal system last?

A geothermal system can help you bring down the cost of your traditional heating and cooling systems by decreasing your energy use -- this much we know. But one of the lingering questions for those considering a geothermal installation in their own home is this: how long will the system last? After all, a system may help drive down energy costs, but those savings won't be as impressive if the system isn't durable enough to last a long time.

Fortunately, a geothermal system can be considered a durable investment. After the system's installation, you'll likely recoup your costs in the form of energy savings in between 5 to 10 years. Further, the system itself will last a while. Your internal system is good for an estimated 25 years, while the ground loop that's installed underground can last over 50 years.

Get started on your geothermal system installation with a Minneapolis geothermal company you can trust -- Hartmann Well Drilling. Call us today at (952) 758-2202.

Moonbase Model Uses Geothermal Heating & Cooling

Web publication io9 recently ran a story on NASA's brand-new building in Moffett Field, CA, which recently won Platinum LEED cerfication. The building is, according to Ames Research Center director Pete Worden, the "first Moon building on the planet earth."

What makes this building so special? First off, it utilizes geothermal wells for heating and cooling the building -- similar technology could be used on the Moon. In addition to the geothermal wells, the building makes use of a water recycling system, solar panels, and fuel cells to generate and recycle as much natural energy as possible.



Interesting in adding a geothermal heating and cooling system to your terrestrial Minneapolis home? Give Hartmann Well Drilling a call today at (952) 758-2202.

Minnesota Holds Untapped Geothermal Potential

Here's an interesting story, published earlier this month on MinnPost.com.

According to a new study from the Natural Resuorces Research Institute of the University of Minnesota Deluth, and the University of North Dakota, Minnesota has great potential for low-cost geothermal power. Lead researcher Don Fosnacht said that "the potential is three or four times greater than we assumed, and it's a lot easier to get at than the earlier reports indicated."

What's this mean? Simply put, geothermal heat is a lot closer to the surface of the earth in Minnesota than it was previously thought to be. Geothermal systems then become less expensive, as the drilling required to put the systems in place can stay at a more shallow depth. Areas in western and central Minnesota show the most promise, according to Fosnacht.

Hartmann Well Drilling is accredited through the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association to drill geothermal wells and install geothermal heat pumps. Give us a call today to learn more at (952) 758-2202.

Senator Pushes for More Geothermal Energy

In Vermont, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders recently came out in support of geothermal energy, touting the benefits of the technology in terms of reduced fossil fuel consumption in homes. Sanders held a briefing with HA Manosh, a Vermont-based well drilling company. During a press conference afterwards, Nick Manosh, Vice President of Manosh, said, "A homeowner will save about 30 to 50 percent on fuel costs" when using a geothermal energy system.

According to an article by VTDigger.org, the U.S. currently spends $350 million on oil imports. As geothermal energy becomes a bigger part of the home energy pie, those numbers could decrease. A growing geothermal industry stateside could also lead to job growth in the country, which is one reason why Sen. Sanders held his briefing to push for expanded use of the technology.

Hartmann Well Drilling is proud to help Minneapolis homeowners save using ground-source heating and cooling from geothermal technology. If you're interested in installing such a system for your home, give us a call today at (952) 758-2202.

Geothermal Maintenance Tips

Your geothermal system plays an important part in keeping your Minneapolis home energy costs down, so it's crucial that you do everything you can to keep your system well-maintained and running smoothly. We've gathered a few tips to help you do just that.

Check Air Filters Regularly
Your geothermal pump should have a few different air filters; some will need to be replaced completely when dirty, while others can simply be cleaned. If you aren't comfortable completing such a task yourself, you can call us to take care of that for you.

Examine the Ductwork
Once a year, check your system's ductwork for issues, such as loose connections or leaks. If you track down a problem, call us in to deal with it as soon as possible.

Look Out for Other Issues
Pay attention to your traditional energy bills. If you start to see them go up, there might be a problem with your geothermal system. You may notice without even looking at your bills. If your home feels noticeably warmer or cooler, it's a good idea to have your geothermal system looked at.

Hartmann Well Drilling helps Minneapolis home owners save money by supplementing traditional energy with geothermal heating and cooling pumps. Contact us today to learn more about geothermal energy can help save you money!

Geothermal: Still a Dark Horse

Geothermal energy isn't a brand new source, but that doesn't mean it's on everyone's minds, yet. In fact, according to the title of a piece from TG Daily, the entire industry is still "under the radar."

The geothermal industry is growing quite steadily in the United States; approximately 91 megawatts of capacity was added in 2011. In the Western U.S. alone, approximately 75,000 MW of potential geothermal energy still remains untapped, ensuring that the industry has room for continued growth.

Home geothermal pumps are becoming more and more popular as traditional fossil fuels become more expensive. How it works is this; a looped pipe is installed that goes a certain distance down into the earth, where the temperature remains the same consistently. This heat is transferred up the pipes and into the home during cooler seasons, and heat from the home is taken down into the pipes during warmer seasons. The result is that you're able to keep your home at a comfortable temperature using less traditional energy.

Hartmann Well Drilling is the company Minneapolis residents turn to for their geothermal drilling needs. Contact us today for a free geothermal quote by calling (952) 758-2202.

Facts About Geothermal Energy

Geothermal systems are growing more popular in homes around the country, as well as abroad. Here are a few facts you may not know about geothermal.

• Geothermal systems have a longer life expectancy than traditional heating and cooling systems.
• You can reduce your water heating costs by 50% to 60% using geothermal energy.
• Geothermal energy is not harmful to the environment. No fossil fuels are burned, and a small amount of electricity is used.
• No ugly outdoor unit! Your landscape will look better as a result.
• You'll save money! Geothermal heating and cooling systems are the most energy-efficient systems available today, according to the EPA.
• Geothermal systems don't make a lot of noise.

Your home or business can benefit tremendously from a geothermal system installation. Get in touch with us today to learn more about geothermal and how it can save you money.

HGTV Takes a Look at Geothermal Heating

This video from HGTV Remodels takes a look at a geothermal loop heating and cooling system, and the way it can help keep energy costs down for homeowners and businesses.

Interested in installing a geothermal heating and cooling system for your own home or commercial property? Get in touch with Hartmann Well Drilling today at (952) 758-2202, or complete our free geothermal estimate form.

Saint Kitts and Nevis Can Use Geothermal Energy to Go Carbon Neutral

The energy needs of Saint Kitts and Nevis currently measure at 10 megawatts. But the nation recently discovered that it sits on top several large geothermal reservoirs -- enough to produce approximately 50 megawatts of clean energy, around 40 megawatts more than the nation has a need for. The excess energy can be exported, providing an economic boost for Saint Kitts and Nevis, and it will make the nation virtually carbon neutral (meaning that it balances fossil fuel usage with renewable energy).

We've written a lot about how geothermal energy is helping homeowners bring down their utility bills, but how can geothermal energy help the world on a larger scale? Take a look at the two island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis, located in the Carribbean.

Geothermal will help Saint Kitts and Nevis reduce its dependence on fossil fuels over time. Geothermal energy can help your home do this on a smaller scale, too, as less traditional energy is needed when geothermal energy is used to pre-heat or pre-cool your home. As geothermal becomes more popular, we'll undoubtedly discover more uses for this natural source of energy.

Interested in learning about how a geothermal energy system can bring down your utility bills? Call Hartmann Well Drilling today at (952) 758-2202.

Ice Castles Built with a Geothermal Heating System

Winter is always a fun time for Minnesota resident Roger Hanson. Using cold water from his geothermal heating and cooling system, Hanson creates enormous ice castles that tower over his own home.



Hanson's geothermal system draws water up from the ground at 47 degrees. This water is used to heat the home, and is then expelled when it reaches 37 degrees. A special system of computer programmed sprayers are used to spray the water and create the amazing looking ice castle you see above. It's definitely a unique art form and a unique way to use a geothermal heating and cooling system.

Learn more about geothermal heating and cooling by checking out one of our past blogs. If you have any questions, contact Hartmann Well Drilling at (952) 758-2202.

Geothermal: The Future

Wondering where the geothermal industry will be in a few years? Think it's just a fad? If so, a recent report from Pike Research might change your mind.

The research group believes that, by 2017, geothermal heat pump sales will double. In all, 326,000 pumps are expected to ship in that year.

"Increased retrofit activity, a rebound in construction, and growing interest in the commercial and institutional sectors will drive strong growth through 2017 for geothermal heat pumps," said the report.

Hartmann Well Drilling, of course, has been leading the charge for geothermal heating and cooling in the home, offering geothermal installation that allows homes to take advantage of the energy under the earth's surface for heating and cooling purposes.

Interested in learning more about Hartmann's geothermal services? Call us today at (952) 758-2202.

Geothermal Energy Basics - A Video

Geothermal heating and cooling makes use of the energy stored under the earth's surface to heat or cool your home, depending on the season. Here's a video that gives you a glimpse into the process behind a geothermal heating and cooling system, and how it can help you save money on your energy costs.



Are you ready to save on home heating and cooling? Contact Hartmann Well Drilling a call today. Since 1932, Hartmann has helped families in Minnesota stay warm or keep cool -- now we can help you save money. Call (952) 758-2202 today, or complete our free estimate form online.

Benefits of a Hand Water Pump

Whether you already have a submersible water pump, or you're looking for a primary pump, you can't go wrong with the Simple Pump hand-operated water pump. We're now installing these pumps for customers, and are willing to stand behind the product both in terms of quality and usefulness.

Pumping water from the Simple Pump is incredibly easy; so easy, in fact, that a child can pump 5 gallons per minute without straining themselves. The Simple Pump is also long-lasting, touting a 50-year product lifespan. Lastly, its affordability means that you can install it anywhere safe drinking water is needed without dropping a lot of money.

Ready to learn more about the Simple Pump and our installation process? Fill out our free water pump estimate form, or call (952) 758-2202.

Why Go Geothermal?

If you're interested in energy-efficient heating, it's possible you've heard about geothermal heating and cooling systems. A geothermal system uses natural energy from beneath the earth's crust to heat and cool your home. You may be asking though -- what are specific reasons to go with a geothermal system?

• Energy savings. Simply put, homes that use geothermal heating and cooling enjoy savings on energy bills that might otherwise be much higher.
• Simultaneous heating and cooling without wasted energy. Need cooling in one area with heating in the other? With geothermal, this is possible without wasting energy.
• Durability. Geothermal HVAC systems have proven to be incredibly reliable, requiring less troubleshooting and repair than traditional heating and cooling systems.

Interested in learning more about a geothermal heating and cooling system? Give Hartmann Well Drilling a call today at (952) 758-2202.