drainageput

Drainageput, or drainage well, is a subsurface chamber that collects and discharges excess water from a drainage system. It serves to lower groundwater levels or remove surface runoff, reducing flood risk and aiding soil stability in construction, agriculture, and urban drainage. The term is used in civil engineering to describe an intake point connected to a network of buried drains.

Drainageputs are typically cylindrical or vault-like and installed underground. Common materials include reinforced concrete, concrete rings, PVC, or steel, with perforated or screened inlets to admit water while preventing sediment entry. The intake connects to drainage pipes, and the outlet transfers water to an infiltration zone, a water body, or, in some cases, an injection point into the subsurface.

Applications include foundation drainage for buildings, groundwater control for basements, agricultural drainage to prevent waterlogging, and urban flood mitigation. Some designs act as recharge wells, returning collected water to an aquifer, while others function solely as discharge points.

Key design considerations are soil permeability, depth to groundwater, proximity to utilities, and regulatory requirements. Maintenance involves sediment removal, clearing perforations, and periodic inspection. Proper siting and permitting are essential to protect water quality and avoid environmental impacts.

Drainageputs are installed by qualified professionals as part of a broader drainage strategy. They are governed by local codes and standards related to groundwater protection, construction safety, and environmental impact.