How to monitor well levels using a data logger

The level logger and barometric pressure logger must first be programmed to set the rate of sampling, start time, and stop time. This is accomplished while the loggers are connected to a laptop via the optical drive and utilizes software provided by the equipment manufacturer.

The level logger should be suspended below the lowest expected water level, but not more than 30 feet below the highest expected water level (this depth may vary by logger model).

The barometric pressure logger should be suspended in air above the highest expected water level.

Accurately measure out appropriate lengths of stainless steel cable to suspend the level and barometric pressure loggers and attach the loggers to the ends of the cables.

A perforated PVC pipe should be attached to the cable so that it covers the level logger to prevent damage from well pumps.

Attach the ends of the cables to the well cap and lower the loggers into the well.

After the initial installation of the logger, the well should be disinfected.

Downloading data from the loggers can be accomplished by removing the loggers from the well and using an optical drive to connect the loggers to a laptop. Data should be retrieved montly during periods of low water use and at least weekly during dry periods or when water consumption is high. Direct-read cables and wireless transmitters are available at additional cost to retrieve data without removal of loggers from the well.

Care should be taken so the data loggers do not come in contact with contaminants when removed to retrieve data. If there is reason to believe that contaminants may have been introduced to the well during measurement, the well should be disinfected as a precaution.