In Arizona’s mineral-rich environment, maintaining a productive water well isn’t just about clearing out sediment—it’s about restoring the entire system from the casing to the gravel pack. That’s where water jetting comes in. Unlike traditional brush-and-bail methods, water jetting penetrates deep into the well structure to fully clean and restore functionality.
Below, the pros here at Western Drilling break down how water jetting works and why it’s one of the most effective solutions for well rehabilitation in Arizona.
What Is Water Jetting and Why Does It Matter?
Historically, well rehabilitation involved using cable tool rigs, brushes and swabs. While effective at cleaning the inside of a casing, these methods often missed the critical outer areas, especially the annular space and gravel pack. Arizona’s high calcium and salt content makes these outer regions prone to buildup, which can clog perforations and reduce well efficiency.
Water jetting uses high-pressure water (up to 15,000 PSI), hydrochloric acid, and corrosion inhibitors to remove these mineral deposits. This comprehensive method restores water flow and increases specific capacity.
How the Water Jetting Process Works
Western Drilling has developed a proprietary tool to ensure the most effective cleaning possible. Here’s how the process works:
- Pull all existing equipment
- Pre-video inspection and chemical planning
- High-pressure jetting (5,000–15,000 PSI)
- Bail out debris loosened by jetting
- Post-video inspection
- Reinstall equipment
- Pump to waste until water is clear
The Before and After: Real Results in Buckeye, AZ
One of Western Drilling’s recent jobs was a 600-ft deep well in Buckeye, AZ that was approximately 20 years old. The before-and-after results are striking—perforations that were previously invisible due to blockage are now completely open, revealing the cleaned gravel pack behind them:
As you can also see below, before water jetting, the perforations are clogged and the gravel pack is invisible. After water jetting, the perforations are clear and the gravel pack is visible once more:
Why Choose Water Jetting?
Here are some commonly asked questions that explain why water jetting is the superior method:
How long does it take?
Water jetting typically takes 8–10 hours depending on well depth, diameter and perforations
How often should it be done?
Typically every 2 years
Why is it better than brush and bail?
Water jetting penetrates perforations and stimulates the gravel pack
What casing sizes can be serviced?
Six inches is the smallest. Casing can be water jetted up to 36 inches
What’s the result?
Water jetting increases specific capacity
See the Difference for Yourself With Western Drilling
Western Drilling’s water jetting services are changing the game for well owners across Arizona. Download our full water jetting guide below to learn more, or contact us here today to schedule your next well rehabilitation & maintenance service.
🔗 Download the Western Drilling Water Jetting PDF
🔗 Learn more about our full range of well rehabilitation & maintenance services: https://westerndrillingco.com/well-services/well-rehabilitation-and-maintenance
📞 Call us: 623-327-1200
