Our Story

Serving Western New York Since 1975

Our story began in 1975, when our family started drilling wells throughout Western New York. What began as a small, hardworking operation has grown steadily over the decades — built on reputation, reliability, and doing the job right the first time.

Today, we are still family owned and operated. McCandless Well Drilling is headquartered in Jamestown, New York, serving homeowners, farms, and businesses throughout the Chautauqua County region with professional well drilling and water treatment services.

In 2017, the next generation returned home to help grow the business. Since then, we’ve expanded our fleet, strengthened our team, and continued investing in better systems and training — all while staying true to the foundation that got us here.

1975

Year Founded

3rd

Generation Family Business

4.9 ★

Google Rating 300+ Reviews

Expertise & Standards

A Disciplined, Professional Approach

Before coming back to the family business, we gained experience managing large-scale operations in the oil and energy industry. That background shaped how we run McCandless Well Drilling today.

Our team specializes in water well drilling, pump installation and repair, and comprehensive water filtration and softening solutions. As members of the National Ground Water Association, our team maintains industry certifications and follows best practices for well drilling, installation, and maintenance. 

We partner with trusted brands like Franklin Electric and Goulds to ensure lasting quality and efficiency. Our water testing and treatment systems comply with EPA standards for safe drinking water. We follow EPA guidelines for well water quality and treatment recommendations. Our dedication to customer satisfaction is at the core of everything we do, backed by warranties on tanks and pumps for added peace of mind. 

Whether you need a new well, pump maintenance, or improved water quality, we are here to help. Visit McCandless Plumbing & Excavation for your plumbing, sewer, and excavation needs. Don’t just take our word for it—read our Reviews and Testimonials from satisfied customers.

How It Works

Our Well Drilling Process

Drilling a well is not a one-size-fits-all service. Every property is different — soil conditions vary, depths vary, recovery rates vary. Transparency is critical from the very first conversation.

⬜ Step 1: Site Visit & Property Evaluation

We begin with an on-site consultation to evaluate your property.

We review:

  • Location options for drilling
  • Required setback distances
  • Septic system placement
  • Access for equipment

This ensures your well is positioned safely and in compliance with regulations.

⬜ Step 2: Research & Transparent Pricing

Before drilling begins, we:

  • Review area well data
  • Estimate expected depth and conditions
  • Provide a realistic pricing range

Because underground conditions vary, we explain best-case and worst-case scenarios upfront so there are no surprises.

⬜ Step 3: Permits & Utility Coordination

We handle the necessary preparation work, including:

  • 8-1-1 utility location coordination
  • Required New York State reporting
  • Scheduling and logistics

We make sure everything is properly documented and cleared before breaking ground.

⬜ Step 4: Drilling Day

On drilling day, our experienced crew:

  • Mobilizes equipment
  • Drills to the appropriate depth
  • Installs casing and necessary components

We work efficiently while maintaining safety and site control throughout the process.

⬜ Step 5: System Installation & Hook-Up

After drilling is complete, we:

  • Install the well pump
  • Connect the system to your home
  • Set up pressure tanks and controls

This ensures your water system is fully operational and properly configured.

⬜ Step 6: Water Testing & Final Review

We collect water samples and test for:

  • Minerals
  • Bacteria
  • Overall water quality

If treatment is recommended, we walk you through your options clearly and honestly.

⬜ Step 7: Ongoing Support

Our relationship doesn’t end once the well is drilled.

We provide:

  • Pump replacement
  • Tank service
  • No-water diagnostics
  • Water treatment guidance

We stand behind our workmanship and remain available if you need us.

Why Homeowners Choose Us

We Show Up Prepared

Every job starts with a proper site evaluation, area well data research, and a clear price range — before a single drill bit touches the ground.

We Explain Things Clearly

No jargon. No surprises. We walk you through best-case and worst-case scenarios upfront so you always know where you stand.

We Price Work Fairly

You deal directly with the owner — no commission salespeople, no pressure tactics. Our pricing reflects the actual work, nothing more.

Local, Family-Owned, Generational

Three generations. Nearly 50 years. Thousands of wells across Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania. This is our home too.

Our Commitment

"No pressure. No shortcuts. No surprises."
  • Fast & Efficient
  • Upfront & Honest
  • Professional
  • Warranty-Backed
  • Family-Operated
  • Locally Rooted
A McCandless Well Drilling and Services Inc. van shows clear contact info, ready to help customers in the evening.

Proudly Associated With:

Contact us today for professional well drilling services!
(716) 666-3708

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