Water Bore Repairs Perth

Has Your Water Bore Stopped Working?

A water bore that has stopped pumping does not automatically need a new pump or a new bore.

The problem may be caused by the bore itself, the pump, electrical equipment, pipework, groundwater level or the reticulation system.

Common problems we investigate include:

• Bore pump running but no water
• Bore pump not starting
• Pump tripping the circuit breaker or safety switch
• Failed bore pump capacitor
• Low water pressure
• Reduced bore flow
• Bore pumping sand or sediment
• Centrifugal pump losing prime
• Submersible pump failure
• Pump motor failure
• Failed non-return valve
• Suction-line air leaks
• Contactor and overload faults
• Pump controller faults
• Damaged rising main or pipework
• Falling groundwater level
• Blocked or fouled bore screens
• Failed bore spear or screen
• Damaged bore casing
• Stuck or jammed submersible pumps
• Bore pump dead-heading
• Reticulation faults affecting bore operation

Rather than guessing which component has failed, we diagnose the system first.

Water Bore Fault Finding & Diagnosis

Correct diagnosis is one of the most important parts of a bore repair.

Replacing a pump will not solve the problem if the actual fault is damaged casing, a failed non-return valve, poor bore yield or an electrical control problem.

Likewise, drilling a completely new bore may be unnecessary if the existing bore can be repaired or rehabilitated.

Depending on the symptoms and bore construction, our diagnostic process can include:

• Pump and motor testing
• Electrical insulation testing
• Pump control testing
• Static water-level measurement
• Pumping water-level assessment
• Flow testing
• Pressure testing
• Pipework inspection
• Non-return valve testing
• Down-hole camera inspection
• Bore construction assessment
• Bore yield and recovery assessment

Once we identify the likely cause, we can explain the repair options and whether repair, rehabilitation or replacement is the most practical long-term solution.

Submersible Bore Pump Repairs & Replacement

Aquarian Drilling repairs and replaces submersible bore pumps throughout Perth.

A submersible pump can fail because of normal wear, motor failure, electrical faults, damaged cable, unsuitable operating conditions, poor pump selection or problems within the bore itself.

Before replacing a pump, we assess the system to determine why it failed.

This is important because installing a new pump without identifying an underlying bore problem can damage the replacement or cause the same failure to occur again.

Where replacement is required, we select the new pump according to:

• Available bore yield
• Static water level
• Pumping water level
• Pump installation depth
• Total dynamic head
• Required flow
• Required pressure
• Pipework
• Irrigation demand
• Tank or storage requirements

We supply and install leading pump brands including Grundfos, Lowara, Calpeda and Davey.

Centrifugal Bore Pump & Old Well Repairs

Many established Perth properties still use traditional bore systems with a centrifugal pump installed in or near a concrete well.

Aquarian Drilling has extensive experience diagnosing and repairing these older systems.

Common faults include:

• Pump losing prime
• Failed non-return valve
• Suction-line air leaks
• Failed bore spear
• Reduced groundwater level
• Pump wear
• Shaft seal or gland problems
• Electrical faults
• Damaged suction pipework
• Sand entering the bore
• Reduced bore yield

Older systems should be properly assessed before they are condemned.

Where the well, pump and groundwater conditions remain suitable, repairing or re-spearing the existing system may be considerably more economical than replacing it with a completely new submersible bore.

Re-Boring & Re-Spearing Old Perth Water Bores

Been Told Your Old Bore Cannot Be Repaired?

Aquarian Drilling specialises in re-boring and re-spearing old Perth water bores and concrete wells.

Older galvanised bore spears and screens can eventually corrode, collapse or allow sand into the system.

Depending on the existing construction and groundwater conditions, we may be able to install a new bore or spear within the existing well and retain other serviceable components.

Repair options can include:

• Re-boring the existing well
• Installing new slotted PVC
• Re-spearing
• Replacing the non-return valve
• Repairing suction pipework
• Reusing a serviceable centrifugal pump
• Developing the repaired bore

Where re-boring or re-spearing is practical, it can restore the existing water supply without automatically converting the property to a completely new submersible bore.

If the existing system is no longer practical or economical to repair, Aquarian Drilling can assess the site and quote a new submersible water bore.

Learn more about Re-Boring & Re-Spearing Perth Water Bores →

Water Bore Re-Sleeving

A damaged or ageing bore does not always need to be abandoned.

Where the existing bore construction allows, Aquarian Drilling may be able to install appropriately sized casing or screen inside the existing bore.

Re-sleeving can be useful where the existing casing or screen has failed but the bore and groundwater source remain viable.

Before recommending re-sleeving, we assess:

• Existing casing diameter
• Bore depth
• Location of the damage
• Available internal diameter
• Pump requirements
• Water-producing zones
• Condition of the remaining bore

Where technically suitable, re-sleeving can salvage an existing bore and avoid the cost of completely re-drilling it.

Down-Hole Bore Camera Inspections

Some water bore problems cannot be accurately diagnosed from the surface.

Aquarian Drilling uses specialist down-hole camera equipment to inspect the internal condition of suitable water bores and wells.

Camera inspections can help identify:

• Cracked casing
• Split or collapsed casing
• Damaged screens
• Corrosion
• Root intrusion
• Sediment build-up
• Biofouling
• Obstructions
• Foreign objects
• Down-hole pump problems

Seeing the actual condition of the bore can help determine whether repair, re-sleeving, rehabilitation or replacement is the most appropriate option.

Learn more about Bore Camera Inspections →

Stuck & Dropped Bore Pump Recovery

Submersible pumps can become stuck or jammed inside bore casing.

Common causes include:

• Tree roots entering damaged casing
• Distorted or damaged PVC
• Bore misalignment
• Pump installed too close to the bottom
• Sediment and silt build-up
• Electrical cable becoming wedged
• Stainless-steel support cable becoming tangled
• Damaged rising main
• Previous unsuccessful removal attempts
• Foreign objects in the bore

Aquarian Drilling uses specialist pump recovery and winching equipment to assess and retrieve stuck or dropped bore pumps where practical.

Trying to forcibly pull a badly stuck pump can make the situation considerably worse and may damage the bore.

We assess the likely cause and explain the risks before attempting recovery.

Learn more about Stuck Bore Pump Recovery →

Bore Rehabilitation & Development

Has Your Bore Gradually Lost Flow?

Reduced bore performance does not necessarily mean the bore has reached the end of its useful life.

Flow can decline because of:

• Sediment accumulation
• Fine sand
• Clay and drilling fines
• Mineral deposits
• Iron fouling
• Biological fouling
• Blocked bore screen
• Material restricting water movement around the screen

Depending on the bore construction and identified problem, Aquarian Drilling can use rehabilitation techniques including:

• Air development
• Air-lifting
• Surging
• Mechanical development
• Chemical treatment
• Combined rehabilitation methods

The aim is to restore water movement into the bore and improve performance where the bore and surrounding formation remain viable.

Learn more about Bore Air Development & Chemical Treatment →

Bore Bacteria & Biofouling Treatment

Biological growth can contribute to reduced bore performance, blocked screens, deposits and changes in water appearance or odour.

Where biofouling is suspected, we first consider the bore construction and symptoms.

Suitable bores may then be cleaned and treated using appropriate rehabilitation methods.

Chemical treatment should be selected according to the bore construction and the problem being addressed rather than applied indiscriminately.

Specialist Bore Electrical Repairs

Aquarian Drilling has specialist bore electrical capability in-house.

This is particularly valuable because many apparent pump or bore failures are actually electrical faults.

We diagnose and repair problems involving:

• Submersible pump motors
• Centrifugal pump motors
• Failed capacitors
• Contactors
• Motor overloads
• Direct Online Starters
• Pump start boxes
• Pump controllers
• Electrical cable
• Float switches
• Level controls
• Pressure controls
• Bore automation
• Pumps tripping protection devices
• Pumps failing to start or stop

Electrical testing can help distinguish between a failed pump motor and a control-system fault before unnecessary components are replaced.

Learn more about Specialist Water Bore Electrical Repairs →

Fused Bore Pump Motors & Insurance Assessments

Submersible and centrifugal pump motors can fail electrically because of insulation breakdown, internal motor failure, electrical supply problems or other faults.

Our bore electrical capability allows us to test the motor and associated electrical equipment.

Where appropriate, Aquarian Drilling can provide documentation relating to a fused or electrically failed bore pump motor for an insurance claim.

Insurance coverage varies between policies, so customers should confirm their applicable cover, equipment-age requirements and excess directly with their insurer.

Non-Return Valve Replacement

Non-return valves, also called check valves or NRVs, are particularly important in traditional centrifugal bore systems.

When an NRV fails, water can drain back down the bore after the pump stops.

The pump may then lose prime and run without delivering water.

Aquarian Drilling replaces failed non-return valves and checks the associated suction system for leaks and other faults.

For suitable traditional bore applications, we use quality brass non-return valves.

Deep Well Repairs Perth

Aquarian Drilling specialises in repairing and maintaining older deep wells and concrete well systems.

These installations can contain pumps, suction pipework, electrical equipment and ageing bore infrastructure many metres below ground level.

Deep-well work requires specialist knowledge and appropriate safety procedures.

Our assessment can include:

• Centrifugal pumps
• Suction systems
• Bore spears
• Non-return valves
• Pipework
• Electrical equipment
• Existing well condition
• Bore performance

Where appropriate, we can repair the existing system, re-spear or re-bore the well, or recommend replacement if repair is no longer practical.

Learn more about Deep Well Repairs Perth →

Low Water Pressure & Reduced Bore Flow

Low pressure can have many causes.

Before recommending a larger pump, the complete system should be assessed.

Possible causes include:

• Worn pump
• Incorrect pump selection
• Falling water level
• Excessive drawdown
• Reduced bore yield
• Blocked screen
• Pipe leaks
• Failed valves
• Reticulation faults
• Excessive sprinkler demand
• Incorrect pipe sizing
• Electrical or control problems

Installing a larger pump into a low-yield bore can make the problem worse.

Aquarian Drilling assesses the available water and complete pumping system before recommending changes.

Bore Pump Running but No Water

If your bore pump is running but producing no water, turn it off until the problem has been assessed.

Continuing to operate a pump without adequate water can damage the pump or motor.

Depending on the system, possible causes include:

• Loss of prime
• Failed non-return valve
• Suction leak
• Falling groundwater level
• Failed spear or screen
• Damaged rising main
• Pump failure
• Blocked bore
• Incorrect three-phase motor rotation
• Excessive drawdown

The correct diagnosis depends on whether the system uses a submersible or centrifugal pump and how the bore was constructed.

Bore Pump Tripping the Power

A pump that trips a circuit breaker, RCD or other protection device should not simply be repeatedly reset.

Possible causes include:

• Failed pump motor
• Insulation breakdown
• Damaged electrical cable
• Water ingress
• Failed capacitor
• Contactor fault
• Overload condition
• Pump mechanically jammed
• Electrical control fault

Our bore electrical technician can test the motor, cable and control equipment to locate the fault.

Bore Pumping Sand

Turn the pump off if your bore begins producing significant sand.

Sand can damage the pump, impellers, valves, pipework and irrigation equipment.

Possible causes include:

• Failed bore spear
• Damaged screen
• Split casing
• Poorly developed formation
• Incorrect screen
• Bore deterioration
• Excessive pumping rate

Depending on the bore construction, possible repairs include re-spearing, re-boring, re-sleeving or rehabilitation.

Where suitable, a camera inspection can help determine the cause.

Bore-Fed Reticulation & Water System Repairs

Aquarian Drilling also repairs reticulation and water-delivery faults associated with bore systems.

Some problems that appear to be bore or pump failures are actually caused by the controller, field wiring, valves, pipework or irrigation layout.

Reticulation Controller Repairs

We diagnose and replace faulty irrigation controllers.

Common problems include:

• Blank displays
• No AC power
• Fused outputs
• Incorrect programming
• Controller not starting the bore
• Individual stations failing to operate
• Intermittent controller faults

Our in-house electrical capability allows us to test the controller, bore-start circuit and associated field wiring before recommending replacement.

We work with major irrigation controller brands including Hunter, Rain Bird and Weathermatic.

Bore & Reticulation Wiring Faults

Aquarian Drilling uses specialist diagnostic equipment to locate electrical faults in bore and irrigation control systems.

These can include:

• Broken field wiring
• Failed pump-start wiring
• Damaged solenoid circuits
• Controller faults
• No power to the bore
• Intermittent electrical faults
• Failed relays and contactors

Correct fault finding can avoid unnecessary excavation or replacement of serviceable equipment.

Broken Reticulation Pipe Repairs

Aquarian Drilling repairs damaged bore and reticulation pipework from small domestic systems through to larger installations.

We work with:

• PVC pressure pipe
• Poly pipe
• Older Dicon pipe
• Bore rising mains
• Irrigation mains

The correct repair method depends on the pipe material, diameter, pressure and condition of the existing system.

Old Dicon Pipe Repairs

Some older Perth reticulation systems contain black Dicon pipe for which standard fittings can be difficult to source.

Aquarian Drilling has experience repairing these systems and can manufacture or adapt suitable couplings where standard fittings are no longer available.

This can allow an otherwise serviceable irrigation system to be repaired without unnecessarily replacing large sections of pipework.

Locating Lost Submersible Bores

Some submersible bores become hidden beneath paving, landscaping or later property alterations.

Our bore electrician uses specialist locating equipment to trace electrical cables and identify the likely position of buried bore heads.

This can reduce unnecessary excavation and allows access for pump testing, servicing or replacement.

Automating Manual Bore Systems

Older bore and well systems may still rely on manual gate valves and pump switches.

Aquarian Drilling can upgrade suitable systems using:

• Automatic irrigation controllers
• Pump-start relays
• Solenoid valves
• Pump protection
• Automatic watering programs

This can convert a manual system into an automatic bore-fed reticulation system.

Sprinkler Repairs & Replacement

We repair and replace faulty or poorly performing sprinklers where they affect the operation of a bore-fed irrigation system.

Sprinkler selection and layout can also be adjusted to better match the available bore flow and pressure.

Reticulation Upgrades & Dry-Spot Repairs

Poor irrigation coverage does not always mean the bore has insufficient water.

Dry areas can result from:

• Poor sprinkler spacing
• Incorrect nozzles
• Damaged sprinklers
• Pressure imbalance
• Incorrectly designed watering zones
• Pipe restrictions

Aquarian Drilling can assess the available flow and pressure and modify suitable systems to improve coverage.

Bore & Reticulation Low-Pressure Testing

Low pressure can be caused by a bore problem, pump fault, damaged pipework or poorly designed irrigation system.

Pressure and flow testing can help identify:

• Leaks
• Restrictions
• Excessive zone demand
• Poor pipe sizing
• Pump performance problems
• Bore yield limitations

Correct diagnosis is usually more useful than simply installing a larger pump.

Seasonal Bore & Reticulation Checks

A bore-fed irrigation system should be operating correctly before the peak summer watering period.

Aquarian Drilling can inspect suitable systems and check items such as:

• Controller programming
• Bore start operation
• Sprinkler performance
• Solenoid operation
• Visible leaks
• Pressure and flow
• Basic system adjustments

Any significant bore, pump or electrical problem can then be investigated before it develops into a larger failure.

Real Perth Water Bore Repair Projects

Aquarian Drilling has repaired water bores and wells across Perth and surrounding areas for more than 30 years.

Our project reports document real faults, diagnoses and repair outcomes.

Balcatta – Old Bore Re-Bored & Re-Speared

An older bore had been assessed elsewhere as requiring replacement.

Our inspection found that the original galvanised spear had failed.

We re-bored the existing system, installed new slotted PVC and a new non-return valve, and retained the serviceable centrifugal pump.

The bore was returned to operation without installing a completely new submersible system.

View the Balcatta Re-Bore Project →

Lower Chittering – Failed Bore Casing Salvaged

A deep existing bore was producing sand.

A down-hole camera inspection identified damaged casing.

Aquarian Drilling installed new internal casing and screen to salvage the existing bore before installing the replacement pump.

View the Lower Chittering Bore Repair Project →

Bore Pump Repair Projects

Our repair work also includes:

• Submersible pump replacement
• Centrifugal pump repairs
• Mechanical seal repairs
• Pumps damaged by sand
• Dead-head pump failures
• Electrical motor failures
• Pump controller faults
• Rising-main repairs

Where possible, project photos should link to a case study explaining the fault, diagnosis and repair.

Bore Rehabilitation Projects

Our rehabilitation work includes:

• Air development
• Air-lifting
• Chemical bore treatment
• Bore cleaning
• Iron and biological fouling treatment
• Reduced-flow bore rehabilitation

Real projects are useful because they show how different faults require different repair methods.

Deep Well & Old Bore Projects

Aquarian Drilling continues to work on traditional concrete wells and older centrifugal systems throughout Perth.

These projects can involve:

• Re-spearing
• Re-boring
• NRV replacement
• Centrifugal pump repairs
• Suction repairs
• Deep-well pump replacement
• Electrical repairs

This specialist capability allows us to assess older systems rather than automatically recommending a complete new bore.

Repair or Replace a Water Bore?

This is one of the most common questions we are asked.

There is no single answer.

An existing bore may be worth repairing where:

• The groundwater source remains viable
• The main bore structure is serviceable
• Damage can be isolated or repaired
• Re-spearing is practical
• Re-sleeving is possible
• Rehabilitation can restore performance
• Pump or electrical repairs will solve the problem

Replacement may be more appropriate where:

• Casing damage is severe
• The bore has collapsed
• Repair access is impossible
• Water quality is unsuitable
• The existing design is no longer fit for purpose
• Repair costs are approaching the cost of a suitable new bore

Aquarian Drilling assesses the existing system before recommending which option makes the most sense.

Why Choose Aquarian Drilling for Water Bore Repairs?

Operating Since 1994

Aquarian Drilling has more than 30 years of practical experience drilling, repairing and maintaining Perth water bores.

New Bore & Repair Capability

If a bore can be repaired, we have specialist repair options. If it cannot, we also have the drilling capability to construct a suitable replacement.

In-House Bore Electrical Expertise

Pump motors, controllers and electrical faults can be assessed as part of the complete bore system.

Old Well & Centrifugal Pump Experience

We continue to repair traditional concrete wells and centrifugal bore systems that many modern bore businesses no longer specialise in.

Specialist Diagnostic Equipment

Our equipment includes electrical test instruments, locating equipment, pump recovery equipment and down-hole bore camera capability.

Repair Before Replacement

Where practical and economical, we investigate repairing or rehabilitating the existing bore before recommending complete replacement.

Water Bore Repair FAQs

Can an old Perth water bore be repaired?

Often, yes.

The answer depends on the bore construction, casing condition, groundwater supply and nature of the fault.

Options can include pump repairs, re-spearing, re-boring, re-sleeving, bore rehabilitation and electrical repairs.

My bore has stopped working. Do I need a new pump?

Not necessarily.

No water can result from pump failure, electrical faults, falling groundwater levels, failed valves, damaged pipework, blocked screens and several other causes.

We recommend diagnosing the system before replacing the pump.

Can you repair old concrete wells?

Yes.

Aquarian Drilling specialises in older concrete wells and centrifugal pump systems, including suction faults, non-return valves, pump problems, re-spearing and re-boring.

Can you repair a bore that pumps sand?

Sometimes.

Sand production can result from a failed screen or spear, damaged casing or unstable formation.

Depending on the construction, re-spearing, re-boring, re-sleeving or rehabilitation may be possible.

Can you repair a collapsed bore?

It depends on the location and severity of the damage.

Down-hole camera inspection can help identify casing problems.

Some bores can be re-sleeved or repaired, while severe collapse may require a replacement bore.

Can a bore with reduced flow be restored?

Potentially.

Reduced flow can result from sediment, mineral deposits, biofouling, blocked screens or changes in groundwater conditions.

We assess the cause before determining whether air or chemical rehabilitation is appropriate.

Can you remove a stuck bore pump?

Yes.

Aquarian Drilling has specialist equipment for stuck and dropped pump recovery.

Recovery feasibility depends on why the pump is stuck and the condition of the bore.

Do you repair bore electrical problems?

Yes.

Our specialist bore electrical capability covers pump motors, capacitors, contactors, overloads, start boxes, controllers, cable and automation systems.

Why does my bore pump keep tripping the power?

Possible causes include motor insulation failure, damaged cable, water ingress, capacitor failure, overload or another electrical fault.

The pump and controls should be tested rather than repeatedly resetting the protection device.

Should I repair my old bore or drill a new one?

That depends on the condition of the existing bore and the cost of a reliable repair.

Where repair is technically and economically practical, repairing the existing system can make sense.

Where the bore is severely damaged or no longer suitable, replacement may provide better long-term value.

Can you locate a buried bore?

In many cases, yes.

Our electrical locating equipment can help trace bore wiring and identify the likely position of a buried submersible bore head.

Can you repair the reticulation as well as the bore?

Yes.

Where the irrigation system is part of the bore problem, Aquarian Drilling can diagnose faults involving controllers, wiring, solenoids, pipework, sprinklers and bore-start circuits.

Water Bore Repairs Across Perth

Aquarian Drilling provides water bore, pump and associated reticulation repairs throughout the Perth metropolitan area, Perth Hills and surrounding districts.

Areas we regularly service include:

Malaga • Ballajura • Dianella • Morley • Noranda • Bayswater • Bassendean • Balcatta • Alexander Heights • Wanneroo • Joondalup • Yanchep • Willetton • Kalamunda • Mundaring • Stoneville • Mount Helena • Gidgegannup • Bullsbrook • Chittering • Bindoon and surrounding areas.

View All Perth Water Bore Service Areas →

Bore Repair Advice & Recent Projects

Learn more about common Perth water bore problems, pump faults, bore rehabilitation and repairs through our technical guides and recent projects.

Bore Not Working Perth? Bore Pump Repairs
Bore Pump Capacitors Perth – What They Do, Why They Fail and How Bore Pump Faults Are Diagnosed
Deep Water Well & Bore Repair Specialists Perth
Optimising Water Bore Performance
Air Developing a Water Bore

 

Need a Water Bore Repaired?

If your bore has stopped working, is losing pressure, pumping sand, tripping the power or has been diagnosed as needing replacement, contact Aquarian Drilling for an assessment.

We work on modern submersible bores, traditional centrifugal systems, old concrete wells, deep wells and bore-fed reticulation systems.

Aquarian Drilling Pty Ltd

Steve: 0417 928 330
James: 0407 885 091
Email: perthbores@iinet.net.au

Family Owned & Operated Since 1994

Water Bore Repairs | Pumps | Re-Boring & Re-Spearing | Rehabilitation | Bore Electrical

Request a Bore Repair Assessment →