Pumping Test for Wells
A pumping test is a type of flow test that is a practical method of estimating well performance, well yield, the zone of influence of the well and aquifer characteristics. A pumping test is generally required to support your water licence application.
In a pumping test, the well is pumped under controlled conditions and the water level in the well is measured over time to determine drawdown.
Pumping tests are commonly used to:
- Determine the maximum sustainable yield for a well
- Assess the impacts of the proposed well on neighbouring wells or water bodies
- Obtain aquifer properties, such as permeability and boundary conditions
Who Can Conduct a Pumping Test
We recommend that a professional with a competency in hydrogeology design and supervise the pumping test, and interpret the results.
Under the Water Sustainability Act (WSA), pumping tests may be conducted by:
- A registered well driller
- A registered well pump installer, or
- A person working under the direct supervision of the registered well driller, registered pump installer or professional with competency in hydrogeology
