What Is Bore Water and What Can You Use It For?

If you recently purchased a property with a bore pump, congratulations! You're about to save so much money on your water bill, all while having the most luscious garden! Here's what you need to know about your new pump.

In this blog, we’ll break down the basics of bore water—how it works, what it’s used for, and what you need to know to get the most out of your bore pump system.

What Is Bore Water?

Bore water is groundwater that’s accessed by drilling a bore (or well) into the earth and installing a bore pump to bring the water to the surface. This water is naturally stored in underground aquifers and is commonly used as an alternative water source on farms, rural properties, and increasingly in suburban and commercial settings.

Is Bore Water the Same as Mains Water?

No—bore water is not treated like tap water. While it’s often safe for many practical uses, it’s not suitable for drinking or cooking without testing and treatment.

That said, bore water is an excellent solution for non-potable uses—especially when it comes to reducing water bills and ensuring a more self-sufficient property.

What Can Bore Water Be Used For?

1. Garden and Lawn Irrigation: Bore water is ideal for keeping your garden green year-round. With the right bore pump and hose setup, you can efficiently water large areas without the cost of mains water.

2. Livestock and Agricultural Use: Many farms use bore water for livestock watering, crop irrigation, and general farm maintenance. With consistent pressure and the right filtration (if needed), it’s a reliable and sustainable choice.

3. Washing and Cleaning: Bore water can be used for washing vehicles, outdoor surfaces, machinery, and equipment. This reduces strain on your household water supply, especially in dry months.

4. Household Use (Non-Drinking): In some households, bore water is connected to toilets, laundry systems, or used for outdoor taps. This setup can significantly cut down water bills—especially during water restrictions.

5. Commercial and Industrial Applications: Construction sites, sporting fields, nurseries, and industrial facilities often use bore water for dust suppression, cooling systems, or large-scale irrigation.

Need maintenance for your pump?

To safely and efficiently use bore water, you need a pump system that’s:

• Sized correctly for your water needs

• Matched with the right hose diameter and flow rate

• Maintained regularly to avoid pressure problems and pump cycling

At Gleeson Pump Solutions, we specialise in bore pump maintenance. It's recommended that pumps be serviced every 1-2 years so give us a call if you're unsure about when your pump was last checked.

So is Bore Water Safe?

For irrigation, cleaning, and livestock use, bore water is generally safe. But for human consumption or household plumbing, it’s important to have the water tested for quality—especially for minerals, salinity, and bacterial contamination.

We recommend speaking with a water treatment specialist if you’re thinking of using bore water inside the home.