Question: What Pipe Should I Use In A New Well?
A homeowner recently had an artesian well drilled.
The well is about 100 feet deep.
The system will be used for irrigation only.
The planned flow is about 12 gallons per minute.
The homeowner calculated a total dynamic head of about 240 feet.
That number matters a lot.
It helps show how hard the pump must work.
It also helps decide pipe pressure ratings.
The homeowner found two common pipe options.
One option was 100 PSI poly pipe.
The other option was a 250 PSI poly pipe.
The pump may put out about 110 PSI near the bottom.
That creates a clear concern.
A 100 PSI pipe could be over its rating.
That is not a safe place to guess.
Answer: Which Pipe Is The Better Choice?
The safer choice is usually a 250 PSI well-rated poly pipe for the drop pipe.
Do not use a 100 PSI pipe where the pressure may reach 110 PSI.
The pipe, fittings, clamps, and adapter must all match the pressure rating.
A licensed well contractor should confirm the final setup.
Why Pressure Rating Matters
Pipe ratings are not just suggestions.
They are working limits.
Pressure spikes can happen when a pump starts.
They can also happen when valves close fast.
This is called water hammer.
That can stress pipes and fittings.
If the pump can reach 110 PSI, a 100 PSI pipe is risky.
That is especially true inside the well.
A failed drop pipe can be costly to repair.
It may also mean pulling the pump again.
What About Fittings?
Use fittings approved for the pipe you buy.
Some lower-pressure poly pipe uses insert fittings.
Those fittings often need stainless clamps.
A higher-pressure pipe may need compression fittings.
That depends on the pipe brand and wall thickness.
Do not mix parts based on size alone.
A fitting must match pipe type and pressure.
Brass and stainless parts are common in well work.
Still, the maker’s chart should guide the choice.
What About The Pitless Adapter?
The pitless adapter is another key point.
It connects the well drop pipe to the underground line.
That fitting must also handle system pressure.
The line after the pitless adapter matters too.
If that pipe can withstand high pressure, size it safely.
A 100 PSI line may be fine in some systems.
But only if controls keep pressure below that rating.
A pressure relief valve is also wise.
Helpful Resources
For basic private well safety, visit the EPA private wells guide.
You can also review the basics from the CDC private wells page.
For information on plastic pipes, see the Plastic Pipe Institute.
Final Takeaway
For this setup, a 250 PSI pipe is the smarter pick.
That is because the pump may exceed 100 PSI.
Use matching fittings for that exact pipe.
Also, confirm the pump curve before buying parts.
A well professional can save a costly mistake.
I’m Chris Mayer, writing for Plumbing 101.
