While many people consider the cheapest option to be the simplest answer, the upfront cost should never be the only factor when selecting a water well drill. A drill that achieves a high return on investment (ROI) will withstand challenging soil conditions time and time again and be backed by quality support from its manufacturer. Before making a purchase, consider environmental conditions, drill quality and manufacturer service.

Location

Start by determining the soil conditions the drill will encounter. Water well drillers face major expenses when drills cannot meet the challenges of a project's location. For example, pulling a poorly manufactured drill over rough terrain can damage the equipment, resulting in delays and costly repairs.

Beyond the drill quality, the drill type, whether mechanical or hydraulic, should be suited for the soil conditions it will most frequently work in.

Mechanical drills provide the necessary power and versatility for drilling in sand, clay and loamy soils. These machines typically drill to depths of 100 to 200ft, tackling the scope of most water well and geotechnical projects. Mechanical drills have few moving parts, making them easy for less-experienced drillers to operate while minimising the risk of accidental damage. Additionally, mechanical drills tend to be lightweight and portable, so one or two individuals can easily load and unload one from the back of a truck or utility vehicle, allowing the drill to access more challenging locations.

Mechanical drills, however, are not suited for every project. To drill deeper and power through hard rock, use a hydraulic drill. These machines achieve depths of 300 to 400ft and are generally the go-to for crews consistently drilling deeper than 150ft. To generate as much as 5,000lbs of push-down force in rugged rock formations, look for a drill rig with an anchoring option and a bypass flow switch. With these added capabilities, crews can more efficiently reach clean water.

For transportation purposes, consider whether the drill will benefit from being mounted on a trailer. Although trailer-mounted models generally cost a bit more than standard hydraulic units, they provide a simple and reliable transportation solution. Some trailer-mounted rigs also include space for hauling drill pipes and other equipment. Additionally, trailer-mounted drills are typically quicker to set up than their freestanding counterparts.

Construction

Drills from different manufacturers often appear quite similar, but a closer look will help determine if a unit is built to last. Some manufacturers entice customers with low prices but avoid discussing quality. When calculating ROI, keep in mind that low-quality drills typically have shorter service lives and little to no resale value compared to higher quality models.

Look for heavy-duty welded steel frames and thick drill pipes, for example, to ensure the drill can withstand challenging conditions. Some manufacturers cut corners by using thinner steel. This can cause the frame to bend or twist while driving or prematurely wear due to corrosion in hot, humid climates. In addition to the frame, look for manufacturers that use 2in diameter drill pipe and connections made of heat-treated alloy steel. Lower-quality drills often use 3/4 or 1in pipes intended for less intense applications.

Drills that incorporate features to simplify maintenance make it easy for crews to extend service life. For example, an easily accessible adjustment screw and locking nut minimises downtime when removing slack from the drive chain. Conveniently located greasing points also save a significant amount of time during routine greasing and maintenance checks. If maintained properly, a quality drill can last from five to 20 years.

Support

Trust takes years to build and only seconds to lose. A reputable manufacturer wants customers to succeed and has a track record to prove it. The last situation a drill crew needs is a project standstill with no one to back them up. Look for manufacturers that provide training manuals, videos and 24/7 technical support. Some manufacturers go so far as to offer training sessions at their facilities, which is a great way for inexperienced drillers to gain hands-on experience before beginning a project.

Additionally, remember that even quality drills will need replacement parts. To prevent downtime, choose a manufacturer that keeps replacement parts in stock and offers fast delivery.

Finally, take a close look at the manufacturer's warranty. One of the best ways to determine a manufacturer's confidence in its products, and its commitment to service and support, is by reviewing its warranty policies.

Once research is complete, start crunching the numbers. Given the work location and future plans for the drill, determine if saving a few dollars today will pay off in the long run. But remember, getting the most drill for the dollar goes beyond the initial price tag.