What Is the Difference Between the Water Table and Static Water Level?

These terms are related but have important differences. Understanding them helps ensure proper pump sizing.

Definitions

Water Table

The water table is the underground boundary where soil or rock is saturated with water. It's a regional characteristic that varies by:

• Geographic location
• Season
• Rainfall
• Aquifer type

The water table represents the general level of groundwater in an area.

Static Water Level (SWL)

Static water level is the specific distance from ground level to the water surface in YOUR well when the pump is not running.

This is the measurement that matters for your pump.

Key Differences

Why Static Water Level Matters

For Pump Selection

Your static water level determines:

• Which cylinder model you can use
• Required drop pipe length
• Pumping effort required
• Motor capability limits

Simple Pump Maximum Depths

How They Relate

In Most Cases

Your well's static water level is at or near the local water table:

• Well draws from the same aquifer
• Similar depths in the area
• Regional patterns apply

Why They Can Differ

Your SWL might differ from neighbors because:

• Well depth differences
• Aquifer variations
• Well construction differences
• Local geology

Which Do You Need to Know?

For Simple Pump Quote

Static water level - your specific measurement

Not Useful for Quotes

Water table - too general for pump sizing

How to Get Your Static Water Level

Method 1: Well Records

• Check driller's report
• Shows SWL at time of drilling
• Note: may have changed

Method 2: Direct Measurement

• Lower weighted line into well
• Listen for splash when hitting water
• Measure line length to splash point

Method 3: County Records

• Many counties track well data
• Contact health department
• May have historical records

Important Notes

Static Water Level Changes

Your SWL may change due to:

• Seasonal variation - Higher in spring, lower in summer
• Drought - May drop significantly
• Pumping in area - Nearby heavy use affects levels
• Long-term trends - Aquifer depletion

For Sizing

Use your lowest expected static water level:

• Accounts for seasonal drops
• Ensures year-round capability
• Conservative approach is safer

Neighbor's Well Isn't Yours

Even if a neighbor has similar depth:

• Your SWL may differ
• Always measure or verify your own
• Don't assume based on nearby wells

Summary

For your Simple Pump quote, you need:

• ✅ Static water level (specific to your well)
• ❌ Water table (general regional term)

Measure or verify your static water level for accurate pump sizing.