Pitless adapters connect to a well casing below the
frost line, and water from the well is diverted horizontally
at the adapter to prevent it from freezing.
Usually, a hole is cut in the casing at a desired level; the discharge part of the adapter is fastened over the hole by a clamp and gasket or by welding.
Pitless units are similar to pitless adapters except
they are manufactured assemblies which replace the upper portion
of the well casing. The casing is off just below the frost line
and the pitless unit is attached to it by threads, welding, or
compression gaskets.
Internal parts are removable and attach to the drop pipe. When in the pitless unit, they form a water tight seal and divert the water horizontally below the frost line into underground water lines.
Pitless adapters and units are for use with submersible, deep and shallow well jet, and piston pumps. To prevent contaminated water from entering a leaking discharge pipe, it is always under pressure.
Before installing a pitless unit, check with local and state well codes, because not all pitless units are acceptable. In general, the units are sanitary if they extend the casing above ground level and are attached to the casing and discharge pipe by approved threads, gaskets, or welds, and if the discharge line is continuously under pressure. Use only the units that have the PAS-1 or NSF seal.
Above-ground Discharge Adapters (1)
The adapters cover the well casing above ground level.
For frost protection, a check valve in the discharge pipe permits
it to drain by gravity, leaving only compressed air in the line.
The well seal, check valve, and pipe connections are above ground
for sanitary protection.
The adapter attaches to the top of the drop pipe and seats
on the top of the well casing. The discharge pipe slopes for
gravity flow to a pressure tank either buried next to the well
or in a basement.
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