Gallons Per Minute (GPM)
Definition
Gallons per minute (GPM) is the standard metric used in the well drilling industry to measure a well’s flow rate — the volume of water the well produces per unit of time under pumping conditions. A residential well in Idaho typically needs to produce a minimum of 1 to 3 GPM to support basic household use, though lenders and banks often require a minimum of 3 to 5 GPM for mortgage or construction loan approval. Commercial, agricultural, and irrigation wells require significantly higher GPM to meet their operational demands. GPM is measured during a well yield test, typically conducted after drilling is complete and the well has been properly developed. Well yield tests produce a documented GPM figure that becomes part of the well log filed with IDWR and is used by banks, real estate agents, and inspectors during property transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Gallons Per Minute (GPM) Matters
How Trident Drilling Company Uses It
Trident Drilling conducts GPM testing as part of the well completion process and provides documented results for clients, real estate agents, developers, and lenders. GPM test results are also included in the well log filed with IDWR.