FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT
Bulk Water, Borehole Drilling & Water Filtration
Have questions about boreholes, water filtration, or bulk water delivery? You’re in the right place.
This FAQ covers the most common queries we get from clients across Gauteng. If you need more help, contact us — we’re happy to assist.
Borehole Drilling Services
How long do boreholes last?
If a borehole is installed according to standard, a borehole can last between 50 and 80 years, making it a long-term investment for your property and savings on your municipal bill for not using council water.
Do I need permission to drill a borehole in the Gauteng?
Yes, you need permission to drill if you fall in the City of Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni. Written consent is mandatory and Watercrew can assist with the application to get approval and registration of your borehole.
How Long does it take to install a borehole?
The time it takes to drill a borehole depends on several factors, including the depth of the borehole and the type of material being drilled through.
- Depth
As a general rule, drilling a borehole typically takes 1 to 2 days. However, the duration can vary depending on the borehole's depth, size and ground formation. - Ground Formation
The type of material being drilled through can signifi cantly infl uence drilling time. Harder materials, such as rock, tend to slow down the process, while softer materials may allow for faster progress. - Weather
Weather conditions also play a role in the drilling timeline. Adverse weather, such as heavy rain or extreme temperatures, can delay the process. - Purpose
The specifi c purpose of the borehole affects the drilling process as well. For example, a borehole intended for commercial purposes may require different methods, materials, and resources compared to one being drilled for a residential site.
In addition to the drilling itself, other tasks must be completed to finish a borehole project, including the installation of pipework and cables, the placement of a submersible pump, and pump testing.
How do I initiate the borehole drilling process with Watercrew?
You can start by contacting us at 071 806 9641 or 060 503 3877, or by emailing info@watercrew.co.za. Our team will guide you through the necessary steps, including site assessment, borehole surveying and obtaining any required permits.
Do I need permission to drill a borehole on my property?
Yes, if your property falls in the City of Johannesburg and Ekhuruleni permission is required. Regulations vary by municipality.
How much does it cost to drill a borehole?
The cost varies based on factors such as depth, geological conditions, and equipment used. Typically, prices range from R60,000. For a detailed quote, please contact us directly.
What factors influence the cost of drilling a borehole?
Several factors affect the cost, including drilling depth, geological conditions, type of pump and filtration systems installed, and additional infrastructure requirements.
How long does the drilling process take?
Drilling a borehole can take 1 to 2 days, depending on the depth and ground conditions. However, the entire process, including planning and installation, may take longer.
Can I use borehole water for household purposes?
Yes, borehole water can be used for various household needs. However, it's advisable to test the water quality and install appropriate filtration systems to ensure safety, especially for drinking and cooking.
How deep will the borehole need to be?
The depth varies depending on the location and water table. In South Africa, boreholes typically range from 40 to 120 meters deep.
Can Watercrew assist with borehole registration and compliance?
Yes, once we have all your required documentation and our survey reports and drafts, we assist with the registration process and ensure compliance with local regulations, including obtaining necessary permits and conducting required assessments.
How big is the drilling machine?
Our drilling rigs are mounted on large trucks and typically require access comparable to that needed by a medium-sized commercial vehicle (similar to a
construction truck). To operate safely, we require a clear, level area of approximately 3 meters wide and 10 meters long, with enough vertical clearance for the drill mast. If you're unsure whether your property has suitable access, our team can assess it during the site visit. Watercrew offers free site visits in the Gauteng area.
What maintenance does a borehole require?
Water Quality Testing and System Servicing
For domestic use, water quality should be tested regularly, at least every 6–12 months.
Filtration systems require ongoing maintenance:
- Minor service: Every 6 months
- Major service: Every 12 months
Warning Signs – When to Call a Technician
Our experienced team is ready to assist with any breakdowns.
Contact us immediately if you notice:
- A sudden drop in water pressure or flow
- Air sputtering from taps
- Cloudy, rusty, or unpleasant-smelling water
- Unusual noises from the pump
- The pump running continuously or failing to start
- Electrical tripping when the pump is switched on
Water Filtration System
How much water does a borehole supply?
The water supply of a borehole depends on factors like the aquifer, depth, and pump capacity. Here's a general breakdown:
- Low Yield: 1–5 litres per minute (L/min), suitable for small households or farms.
- Moderate Yield: 5-20 L/min, suitable for larger households or small communities.
- High Yield: 20+ L/min, can supply larger-scale agricultural or industrial needs.
For example, a borehole with a 10 L/min yield can provide around 14,400 litres per day, or 5.26 million litres per year. However, the actual supply depends on factors like water table levels and seasonal variations.
What types of water filtration systems do you offer?
Watercrew specialises in designing and installing various filtration systems, including reverse osmosis systems suitable for medical institutions, as well as customised solutions for homes and businesses.
How do I know which filtration system is right for my needs?
Our team conducts a thorough assessment of your water quality and usage requirements to recommend the most suitable fi ltration system.
Do you provide maintenance services for the filtration systems?
Yes, we offer monthly servicing and maintenance agreements to keep your filtration system operating efficiently and delivering high-quality water. We also look after our existing customers by sending timely reminders when servicing is due. We recommend a minor service every 6 months and a major service every 12 months.
Can you install filtration systems for large-scale applications?
Absolutely. For larger systems, our technicians can design and implement tailored solutions to meet the specific requirements of the industrial sector.
How can I schedule a consultation or service appointment?
You can arrange a consultation by calling us on 071 806 9641 or emailing info@watercrew.co.za. Our team will be happy to schedule a visit to your premises to discuss your water filtration needs in detail.
Bulk Water Delivery Services
What types of water do you deliver?
We deliver potable water suitable for various uses, including drinking, household needs, and filling swimming pools.
What is the minimum and maximum volume of water you can deliver?
We can deliver varying volumes to meet your needs. For specific volume requirements, please contact us directly on 0718069641 or info@watercrew.co.za for a quote.
How much does bulk water delivery cost?
Pricing depends on factors such as the volume of water required and the delivery location. Please contact us for a detailed quote.
Do you offer emergency water deliveries?
Yes, we provide emergency water delivery services. Please call us directly to arrange an urgent delivery.
Do I need to be home during the delivery?
While it's not mandatory for you to be home, we recommend someone is present to ensure access and proper placement of the water.
How do you ensure the quality of the water delivered?
Our water is sourced from reputable suppliers and transported in clean, sanitised tanks to ensure it meets safety standards.
Can you deliver water to areas with limited access?
Yes, our delivery trucks are equipped with hoses to reach areas that might be challenging to access directly.
How far in advance should I schedule a delivery?
We recommend scheduling your delivery at least 24 to 48 hours in advance. However, we will do our best to accommodate urgent requests.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept various payment methods, including online payments via our secure store at watercrewonline.co.za. You can also contact our office to discuss alternative payment options that work best for you.
What is the minimum and maximum amount of water you can deliver?
We typically deliver bulk water in volumes starting from 1,000 litres, with the capacity to deliver up to 32,000 litres or more in a single trip, depending on your needs and the truck availability. Multiple trips can be arranged for larger volumes.
How quickly can I get a bulk water delivery?
In most cases, we can deliver within 24 to 48 hours of placing your order. For urgent or emergency deliveries, please call us directly, and we'll do our best to prioritise your request.
What happens if my location is difficult to access?
Our delivery trucks are equipped with long hoses to reach areas that may not be directly accessible by the vehicle. If access is extremely limited, we recommend letting us know in advance so we can assess and plan accordingly.
Pump and Tank Installation
What types of pumps do you install?
We install a wide range of pumps, including submersible borehole pumps, booster pumps, and pressure pumps. The most suitable option will depend on factors such as borehole depth, water yield, and your specific water pressure requirements. We are also preferred suppliers and authorised repairers for both DAB Pumps and Grundfos.
How do I determine the right pump for my borehole?
Our team carries out a detailed assessment of your borehole, starting with a water yield test. This test establishes the constant discharge rate while also considering the recovery rate, ensuring the aquifer is not adversely affected during pumping. Using the results, together with the borehole depth, yield, and intended water usage, we then select a pump size that provides optimal performance and long-term reliability. This assessment is a vital step in choosing the right borehole pump.
What size water tank do I need?
The appropriate tank size depends on your daily water consumption and the borehole's yield. Common residential tanks range from 2,500 to 10,000 litres. We can help determine the best size for your needs.
Where should the water tank be installed?
Tanks should be placed on a solid, level base, such as a concrete slab at least 85 mm thick. Proper placement ensures stability and longevity of the tank.
Do you offer integrated pump and tank systems?
Yes, we provide integrated solutions where the borehole pump fi lls the tank, and a booster pump supplies water to your household or irrigation system, ensuring consistent water pressure.
Can I use borehole water for drinking?
Borehole water can be safe for consumption, but we recommend water quality testing. If necessary, we can install appropriate filtration systems to ensure the water meets drinking standards.
What maintenance is required for pumps and tanks?
Regular maintenance includes checking pump operation, inspecting tanks for leaks or damage, and cleaning filters. We offer maintenance services to keep your system running efficiently.
How long does the installation process take?
Installation time varies based on system complexity. Typically, pump and tank installations are completed within 1 to 3 days, assuming all components are readily available.
Do you provide warranties for your installations?
Yes, we offer warranties on both equipment and workmanship. Specific warranty terms depend on the products installed.
Do you supply and install water pumps as well?
Yes, we both supply and install DAB and Grundfos pumps suitable for boreholes, irrigation, and household water pressure systems. We ensure the pump is correctly matched to your water source and usage requirements.
How long does a tank and pump installation take?
Installation typically takes 1 to 2 days, depending on the site conditions, equipment requirements, and complexity of the system. For more advanced setups, it may take slightly longer, but we always aim to complete work effi ciently with minimal disruption.
What is the cost of pump and tank installation?
Costs can vary depending on the type and size of the pump and tank, installation complexity, and site conditions. We provide detailed quotes after a site assessment.
Expert Water Solutions in Gauteng
Borehole Installations, Bulk Water Deliveries & Water Filtration Systems
From borehole pump installations to bulk water deliveries and advanced filtration, we provide end-to-end service you can rely on.
Client Reviews
Discover what our clients have to say about their experience with our borehole drilling and installation services, providing reliable, clean water solutions for both residential and commercial properties.
