Let's face it—choosing the right water well drive point can feel a bit overwhelming. Whether you're a weekend DIYer setting up a small well on your property, a contractor handling client projects, or an environmental pro managing water resources, you want to get this decision right the first time.

Good news! I'm here to walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the best drive point for your specific needs. We'll also look at some great options from ECT Manufacturing that might be perfect for your project.

Why Does Your Drive Point Choice Matter?

Your water well drive point is basically the unsung hero of your well system. It's the component that:

• Lets water flow into your well
• Filters out sand, sediment, and debris
• Sets the stage for how well your system will perform

Pick the wrong one, and you might end up with frustrating issues like reduced water flow, premature corrosion, or compatibility headaches that waste both time and money. Nobody wants that!

What to Look for When Shopping for a Drive Point

Before we dive into specific products, let's talk about what really matters when you're selecting a water well drive point:

Material

The material is a huge factor in how long your drive point will last. Stainless steel is pretty much the gold standard here because it:

• Stands up to corrosion, even in harsh water conditions
• Prevents clogging from mineral buildup (what pros call "incrustation")
• Offers impressive durability, so you won't be replacing it anytime soon

Size

Size definitely matters when it comes to drive points! The diameter affects both compatibility and water flow:

• 1-1/4" and 2" drive points work great for smaller projects or DIY installations
• 3" and 4" drive screens are better suited for larger installations where you need more water

Slot Size

This is all about the filtration—how well your drive point keeps out sediment while letting water flow freely. Standard sizes like 0.010" or 0.020" work for most situations, but you can always request custom sizes for specific conditions.

Construction

How well-built is your drive point? Look for features like heavy-duty wire construction and protective plates (like Johnson Screen's Guardian Plate) that help prevent premature failure.

Application

Finally, think about what you're actually trying to accomplish:

• DIY homeowners might prioritize something that's easy to install and budget-friendly
• Contractors need reliable performance for professional installations
• Environmental specialists often focus on long-term performance and sustainability

ECT Manufacturing's Water Well Drive Point Options

Let's look at some great options from ECT Manufacturing that might suit your needs:

Johnson Screens® 1-1/4" Stainless Steel Drive Point

What you get:

• Made from tough 304 stainless steel (with 316 stainless steel available if you need extra corrosion resistance)
• 90-wire or 60-wire construction options
• Standard 0.010" slot size (custom sizes available)
• Lengths from 24" to 60"
• Stainless steel MIP thread on top with a carbon steel point on bottom (protected by a stainless steel Guardian Plate)

Perfect for: This is your go-to option for smaller DIY projects around your property. It's compact but durable, easy to work with, and the Guardian Plate offers great protection against corrosion where the stainless body meets the carbon steel point.

If you're a homeowner setting up a shallow well, putting together a small irrigation system, or dealing with moderately corrosive water conditions, this is probably your best bet.

Johnson Screens® 2" Stainless Steel Drive Point

What you get:

• 304 stainless steel construction (316 available)
• 90-wire and 60-wire options for enhanced durability
• Standard 0.010" slot size (custom sizes available)
• Lengths from 24" to 60"
• Stainless steel MIP thread on top and carbon steel point on bottom, protected by a Guardian Plate

Perfect for: Think of this as the "just right" option between size and performance. The larger 2" diameter allows more water to flow through while maintaining excellent durability.

This drive point works well for contractors handling residential or small commercial projects, DIY folks who need more capacity than the 1-1/4" option provides, or installations in areas with corrosive or mineral-rich water.

Johnson Screens® 3" Stainless Steel Drive Screen

What you get:

• 304 stainless steel construction (316 available for harsher conditions)
• Heavy-duty 60-wire construction
• Standard 0.010" or 0.020" slot sizes (custom sizes available)
• Lengths from 24" to 60"
• MIP x FIP with optional cast iron point and Guardian Plate

Perfect for: Now we're getting into the professional-grade options. This 3" drive screen handles larger-scale applications that demand high water flow and serious durability.

If you're a contractor working on bigger projects, an environmental specialist managing water resources, or dealing with highly corrosive water or heavy sediment, this robust option deserves your attention.

Johnson Screens® 4" Stainless Steel Drive Screen

What you get:

• 304 stainless steel construction (316 available)
• Heavy-duty 60-wire construction
• Standard 0.010" or 0.020" slot sizes (custom options available)
• Lengths from 24" to 60"
• MIP x FIP with optional cast iron point and Guardian Plate

Perfect for: This is the heavy hitter of the lineup—the go-to choice for high-capacity applications. With its large diameter and exceptional construction, it's ideal for professional installations that demand maximum performance.

Consider this option for large-scale irrigation systems, environmental projects requiring significant water flow, or contracting work in challenging environments.

How to Make Your Final Decision

Still not sure which drive point is right for you? Ask yourself these questions:

How big is your project?

• Smaller DIY project? The 1-1/4" or 2" options will likely serve you well.
• Larger professional installation? You'll probably want the 3" or 4" screens.

What are your local water conditions like?

• Dealing with corrosive or mineral-rich water? Stainless steel construction is a must-have.

How much water flow do you need?

• Moderate flow requirements? The smaller 1-1/4" and 2" options should work fine.
• Need high capacity? Look to the larger 3" and 4" screens.

What's your budget situation?

• Yes, stainless steel options might cost more upfront, but their durability makes them more economical in the long run.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right water well drive point doesn't have to be complicated. By understanding your specific needs and the features of each product, you can make a choice that ensures reliable water access for years to come.

Johnson Screens® stainless steel drive points and screens offer exceptional durability, performance, and versatility—making them great options whether you're a weekend warrior, professional contractor, or environmental specialist.

Ready to find the perfect drive point for your project? Check out ECT Manufacturing's full range (here) and get your water flowing right!