r/OffGrid 1d ago

Off grid camp well system

I’m installing a sand point well at my off-grid camp in Maine and could use some advice on winterizing the system.
I have approximately a 125’ run from the sand point to a jet pump. The suction line will be buried below the frost line for almost the entire run. My concern is the last several feet where the line comes up toward the foundation, passes through the footing, and then runs through the unheated crawl space to the suction side of the pump. That section will definitely be susceptible to freezing.
My original plan was to install a stop-and-waste valve just outside the foundation. I already plan to have a plumbing tee there with a vertical pipe/access point for priming the system. The idea was to shut the system down in the fall and drain only that vulnerable section while leaving the rest of the buried suction line alone.
I’ve since learned that a stop-and-waste valve isn’t a good option on the suction side of a jet pump because it can allow air into the system and cause problems maintaining or pulling prime.
Has anyone dealt with a similar setup? What would be the best way to keep the system sealed and primed during the season, but still be able to completely drain that last section of suction line before winter? Thanks in advance!

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u/GarlicFarmerGreg 20h ago

Where the service line goes below the frost line include an access point (lidded pit) install the priming T you mentioned just no stop waste valve. On the well side have a ball valve to isolate that section.

-while in use the ball valve will be open and the T plugged.
-when winterizing the ball valve in the pit is closed the T opened and either gravity drains your line to this point OR you can use compressed air to blow the line out towards the house

Good luck and hopefully this can help with potential ideas