Borehole Yield Testing measures how much water a borehole can deliver over time without being pumped dry. A test pump runs at a set rate while the water level is recorded, then the recovery is measured after pumping stops. The result tells you the safe pumping rate, the hours per day and where to hang the pump.
- Needed after drilling, before buying a pump, or when an old borehole seems weaker.
- It measures quantity only. Quality needs a separate water test.
Compare quotes for a yield test on a new or existing borehole.
Compare Borehole QuotesWhat the Test Measures
- Rest water level. Depth to water before pumping.
- Drawdown. How far the level drops while pumping at a set rate.
- Recovery. How quickly the level returns after pumping stops.
- Sustainable yield. A recommended pumping rate in litres per hour, with daily pumping hours.
- Pump setting. A safe depth for the pump intake.
Types of Pumping Test
- Step-drawdown test. The rate is increased in steps to see how the borehole responds.
- Constant-rate test. One rate held for a long period, often 24 hours or more for larger users.
- Recovery test. Water levels logged after the pump stops.
- Airlift estimate. A rough flow during drilling. Useful, but not a substitute for a pump test.
Short tests of a few hours are common for household boreholes. Farms, businesses and anyone registering water use usually need longer, documented tests.
The Testing Process
- Setup. A test pump, generator and flow meter are installed.
- Pumping. Flow and water levels are logged at set intervals.
- Recovery. Levels are logged until the water returns close to rest level.
- Report. You get the data and a recommended rate and pump depth.
Yield Testing Prices
| Test | Ballpark price |
|---|---|
| Yield test, domestic borehole | R1,500 - R5,000 |
| 6-hour step-drawdown test | R2,500 - R6,000 |
Ballpark figures, not quotations. Ranges compiled from price guides published by South African contractors, suppliers and quote websites, checked October 2026 and rounded where needed. They are not our prices and no contractor is bound by them. Long constant-rate tests for commercial or agricultural use are quoted per project. Confirm whether VAT is included on every quote.
Sources:
- Borehole Hub, borehole prices 2026
- Lekker Trade, borehole drilling cost per metre (October 2026)
- BroadVision Drilling, borehole drilling prices in South Africa (October 2026, VAT exclusive)
What Affects Borehole Yield Testing Quotes
- Test length and type.
- Borehole depth and expected yield.
- Whether a pump is already installed.
- Report detail and travel.
Questions to Ask About Borehole Yield Testing
- How long will the test run, and is that enough for my use?
- Will you log recovery as well as drawdown?
- Do I get the raw data and a written recommendation?
- Is the recommended rate safe for year-round pumping?
Find testing contractors through Borehole Installation South Africa.
Testing usually follows borehole drilling and comes before pump installation.
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Borehole Yield Testing FAQs
Is yield testing the same as water testing?
No. Yield testing measures how much water the borehole can supply. Water testing checks what is in the water.
Why not use the airlift yield from drilling?
Airlift readings are short and rough. They often overstate what the borehole can sustain.
How long should a yield test be?
It depends on use. A few hours may do for a household. Larger abstraction needs longer constant-rate tests.
Can yield change over time?
Yes. Drought, nearby pumping and clogging can lower yield, so retest if output drops.
Will the test guarantee the yield?
No. It gives a recommended rate under current conditions. Seasons and neighbours' pumping can change it.
Borehole Installation South Africa is a free quote-comparison service. The testing is quoted and carried out by independent contractors, and your agreement is with the contractor you appoint. Availability depends on your location and on contractors taking on that kind of job. Before you pay a deposit, get a written quote that lists what is included and excluded, the guarantee terms and the payment terms.
Borehole Yield Testing. Compare quotes for a proper pump test.
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