(BIVN) – Another setback for the ongoing water restriction in North Kona due two four well outages: One of the wells out of service, the Wai’aha Deepwell – which was supposed to be back in service by today – is back out for more repairs after a Saturday mishap.

According to information posted on the Department of Water Supply website:

Wai’aha Deepwell is currently undergoing repair. Contractor for this repair is Derrick’s Drilling and Pump Services, LLC. Repairs include the replacement of the existing deepwell submersible pump and motor, power cable, column pipe, column couplings, and all appurtenant materials, such as cable guards and strapping; appurtenant electrical work; and chlorination and testing of the well and pumping assembly. Pump and motor were installed as of July 26, 2017. Upon startup on July 27, 2017 the motor tripped on over current condition. Trouble-shooting indicated a problem “down-hole” so the contractor proceeded with extracting all of the column pipes, pump and motor. On July 29, 2017, during extraction of the pump and motor, there was a failure in the lifting cable resulting in the pump, motor, most of the column pipe, and the power cable falling into the well. The contractor is working to remove the pump and motor from the well. If removal is successful, the well will need to be inspected for any damages. The pump, motor, column pipe, and power cable will need to be replaced to prevent an unknown weakened component causing a failure in the future. At this time, the schedule for this well repair is unknown.

Officials remind customers that due to the ongoing Deepwell repairs, the Water Restriction Notice remains in effect for North Kona. A Water Restriction Notice requires customers to reduce water consumption by 25%.