Christensen Well Drilling Co.
Eugene, Oregon 97408
(541) 344-4205
Christensen Well Drilling Co: Water Needs
A CONSUMER'S GUIDE TO WATER WELL CONSTRUCTION
By Oregon Water Resources Department
Estimating Your Groundwater Needs
The U.S. Geological Survey estimates that in-house use averages 80 to 100 gallons of water per
day for each person. The largest household use is flushing toilets followed by showers and baths.
Daily use per person can drop dramatically, by installing water saving devices. A well producing
½ gallon per minute will yield 720 gallons of water per day and supply the inside water needs of
most households. However, this low yield may not be adequate during periods of peak water
demand. There are several ways to manage water systems with low yield wells to stretch a
limited supply.
+ Conservation - Install water savings appliances. (See tips on page 26)
+ Spread use over time - Examples include taking only one shower at a time or delaying some
uses such as laundry or dishwashing to times when demand is low.
+ Storage - Add a storage tank that can be filled at times of low use.
A water meter is used to measure how much water is being pumped. This information is valuable
to better understand and manage water use. Domestic size well meters are available for less than
$300.