Selecting the right dewatering method is a crucial step to controlling groundwater in almost any construction project. The variety of methods used are numerous and therefore must be carefully assessed depending on the job conditions. 

Typically, a sump pump, self-priming pump, borehole pump or submersible pump is preferred to remove or lower groundwater levels. Techniques can vary from simple sump pumps to more complex wellpoints, deepwells and educator wells. 

Sump Pumps – allow for groundwater to be collected and pumped away, often used in shallow excavation areas.

Wellpoints – use closely-spaced wells around the excavation area. These wellpoints are connected to a header pipe and pumped away.  

Deepwells – this technique uses a bored well and lowers the groundwater level below the level of excavation by submersible pumps. They’re best for deep excavations or where high volumes of water need to be discharged. 

Educator Wells – control pore water pressure in low permeability soils like sand, silt or clay. Typically used to help stabilize the side slopes and base of excavations in soils that would be difficult to dewater with wellpoints or deep wells. 

In a recent project for a construction company, Mitchell Lewis & Staver application specialists helped to design three different robust systems for the removal of groundwater using WS D3 and D4 Series submersible sewage pumps from Goulds Water Technology. These pumps were carefully selected based on project scope and with consideration for the local geology and soil types commonly found at their southern California project sites.

Goulds WS D3/D4 sewage pumps feature two-vane semi-open impellers and a non-clog design with ejector vanes for mechanical seal protection. Our solution became a series of economical plug-and-play simplex systems with control panel and premium solids handling capabilities – particle debris up to 2.5 inches. Designed with durability in mind for construction’s challenging environments, this economical dewatering solution helps ensure a safer worksite and avoid costly project delays.


Since 1882, Mitchell Lewis & Staver has focused on technical expertise, superior service, quality products and dependable delivery, making them today a leading distributor of value-added pumps, motors, controls, packaged systems and custom engineered solutions for residential water, wastewater, agriculture, irrigation, commercial and industrial applications. From 16 locations across 13 states and a state-of-the-art UL 508A manufacturing facility where in-house engineers design and build quality standard and custom control panels and packaged systems, Mitchell Lewis & Staver develops innovative solutions in collaboration with customers that help save energy and conserve natural resources.

833-657-7867 | productinfo@mitchellewis.com | www.mitchellewis.com 


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