If you live in Arizona and you’re considering installing a new water well—or even evaluating your current system—you’ve probably realized one important fact: where you live matters. Arizona’s diverse landscapes and elevation differences have a big impact on water well depth, the type of pump you’ll need, and even your water quality.
How Elevation Affects Your Water Quality and Pump Needs
Different elevations mean different water table depths, directly affecting pump choices, water quality, and filtration needs.
Arizona Groundwater Depth by Region:
| Region | Typical Groundwater Depth | Common Water Quality Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | 150–500 ft | Hardness, high minerals |
| Tucson | 200–400 ft | High minerals, hardness |
| Prescott | 200–700 ft | Moderate hardness, minerals |
| Flagstaff | 800–2,000+ ft | Hard water, possible arsenic |
Shallow and Deep Well Pumps
Choosing the correct pump ensures reliable water flow and long-term efficiency.
Centrifugal / Jet Pumps
- Suitable for wells between 25 to 100 feet deep.
- Jet component located underwater, separate from the motor.
- Works with two pipes to handle greater depths.
Submersible Pumps
- Best choice for deeper Arizona wells (up to 2,000 feet).
- Installed directly in the well, they push water upward efficiently.
- Highly reliable, energy-efficient, and handle significant distances easily.
Matching Filtration Systems to Your Arizona Location
| Region | Water Quality Issues | Recommended Filtration Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix & Tucson | – Extremely hard water (12–17 gpg) – Presence of PFAS contaminants | – Water Softeners: Reduce mineral buildup and hardness – Reverse Osmosis: Remove PFAS and other harmful chemicals |
| Prescott Area | – Moderately hard water – Elevated mineral and sediment content | – Water Softeners: Minimize hardness and prevent scale buildup – Sediment Filters: Improve water clarity and reduce particulate matter |
| Flagstaff Area | – Generally high-quality groundwater – Potential naturally occurring arsenic and minerals | – Arsenic-Specific Filters: Remove arsenic effectively – Advanced Filtration Systems: Ensure purity by managing additional mineral content |
While the table above outlines specific filtration recommendations for each region, understanding why these issues matter can help you choose the right system for your home:
Phoenix & Tucson: Tackling Hardness and Chemical Contaminants
- Extremely hard water leads to noticeable scale buildup on plumbing fixtures, appliances, dishes, and even affects personal care, causing dry skin and hair.
- The presence of PFAS, persistent chemicals linked to health concerns, makes reverse osmosis systems essential—not just beneficial.
Prescott & Flagstaff: Maintaining High-Quality Groundwater
- Prescott’s moderately hard water, while less severe than in Phoenix or Tucson, still causes scaling issues and can shorten the lifespan of your plumbing and appliances.
- Flagstaff’s groundwater quality is generally excellent, but naturally occurring arsenic requires specialized arsenic-removal filters for safe consumption.
- Sediment filtration protects your entire water system from particulate matter, reducing maintenance needs and extending equipment life.
Benefits of Investing in Proper Filtration
Reduced long-term maintenance costs
Improved health and safety for your family
Longer-lasting plumbing fixtures and appliances
Enhanced water taste and clarity
Arizona State Resources for Homeowners
Did you know your well must be registered with the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR)?
Check your well’s registration status and water rights online →
ADWR Interactive Groundwater Map screenshot, see live website at https://azwatermaps.azwater.gov/wellreg/
Get the Right Water Well and Pump Setup for Your Arizona Property
Every Arizona home and business has unique water needs—shaped by geography, elevation, and local groundwater conditions. At Western Drilling, we combine over 30 years of local expertise with advanced equipment and personalized solutions.
Our specialists carefully match your property’s location, elevation, and water conditions with the ideal well depth, pump system, and filtration options, ensuring your water remains safe, reliable, and worry-free for years to come.
Call Western Drilling at (623) 327-1200
