FAQs

Water Intake Boreholes

A water extraction borehole is a drilling or coring carried out in the ground to access the underground water resource (aquifer) and allow the extraction of water for human consumption, irrigation, industrial use, or public supply. J. Freitas & Fernando, Lda. manages the entire process: licensing, drilling, extraction, flow testing, final reporting, and maintenance.

Boreholes can serve several purposes, including:

– Human consumption (households, residential use)

– Agricultural or landscaping irrigation

– Industrial use or public water supply

– Boreholes for geothermal purposes, piezometers, and groundwater level control are also part of the services.

The typical process includes:

– Exploratory drilling to assess the aquifer

– Drilling to the required depth

– Installation of casing, filters, and pump if necessary

– Flow tests to determine borehole productivity

– Preparation of a final report and, if applicable, licensing

The company states that it covers “from licensing, exploratory drilling, extraction, cleaning and development, flow tests, final report, and periodic maintenance.”

The time depends on the depth, geological conditions, access to the site, and the complexity of the work. In hard-to-access areas or for deeper boreholes, it may take longer. J. Freitas & Fernando has equipment of different sizes to handle both simple and large-scale projects.

Compliance with national/regional legislation for groundwater extraction is required. The company holds the following licenses: “Water Exploration and Extraction License nº LA010334.2021.RH5A and Construction License nº 1642.”

– Clients are advised to provide the company with land and location details to verify the required licensing.

The cost depends on several factors: borehole depth, soil type, site access, equipment needed, desired flow capacity, among others. It is common to request a personalized quote. The company provides a form or contact option to request a quote.

After installation, it is important to:

– Regularly check the flow and water quality

– Clean or unblock the filter or piping if necessary

– Check the pump (if installed) and the distribution system

The company offers periodic maintenance as part of its service.

Some benefits include:

– Autonomy in water supply, especially in rural areas or where the public network is limited

– Possibility of self-irrigation, reducing long-term costs

– Potential increase in property value by having independent water access

– Greater control over water quality (note: water analysis is recommended for human consumption)

Yes. Points to consider:

– Borehole productivity depends on local geology — there is no absolute guarantee of high flow

– Licensing/approval is required according to legislation

– Extracted water may require treatment, especially for human consumption (potabilization, disinfection)

– Maintenance and equipment costs should be considered