Understanding Above-Ground Well Pump Systems

An above ground well pump diagram illustrates the components and layout of a water well pump system that is installed above ground. It typically includes a pump housing, motor, pressure switch, control panel, pressure tank, and electrical wiring. The diagram shows the flow of water from the well to the distribution system, as well as the electrical connections and controls that operate the pump.

The Wellhead: The Gateway to Your Watery Depths

Picture this: you’re thirsty, craving a refreshing sip of H2O. But how does that water get to your faucet? It starts with the wellhead, the unsung hero that connects the hidden underground reservoir to your thirsty self.

The wellhead is the guardian at the top of your well, where all the magic happens. It’s the access point for your pump and other components, and it plays a crucial role in protecting your water supply from contamination.

Wellhead Types:

• Flush-mounted: Buried underground, it’s practically invisible, but it keeps the water safe from surface pollutants.
• Raised: Stands tall and proud above the ground, making it easier to access the well and perform maintenance.
• Sealed: Features a watertight seal to prevent surface water from seeping into the well.

Wellhead Materials:

• Plastic: Durable and lightweight, it’s a popular choice for residential use.
• Stainless steel: Corrosion-resistant and extra tough, making it ideal for industrial applications.
• Concrete: Affordable and sturdy, it’s perfect for areas with high water tables.

So there you have it, the wellhead: the humble yet essential gatekeeper of your water supply. Without it, your thirst would go unquenched, and your showers would be a sad, dribbly affair. So, next time you pour yourself a glass of water, raise a toast to the wellhead, the unsung hero of hydration!

Well Casing: The Invisible Guardian of Your Water

Picture this: it’s the dead of summer, and the sun is blazing like a furnace. You’re dying of thirst, and the only thing keeping you going is the promise of a cold glass of water. You turn on the tap, but nothing comes out. Panic sets in.

Don’t worry, friend! As the water-well whisperer, I’m here to take you on a magical journey into the depths of your well. And the first stop on our adventure is the well casing. It’s the unsung hero, the silent protector of your precious H2O.

What’s a Well Casing, You Ask?

Well, it’s like the armor of your well. It’s a cylindrical pipe that lines the wellbore, shielding it from the outside world and keeping groundwater from seeping into the wrong places. A well casing can be made of steel, plastic, or even fiberglass, depending on the well’s depth, water quality, and usage.

How Do They Install That Thing?

Installing a well casing is no picnic. These bad boys can be massive! But here’s how it’s done: the well driller feeds the casing into the wellbore, section by section. Each section gets screwed or welded onto the previous one, creating a sturdy, continuous shield. It’s like building a tower into the earth, except with water involved.

Why Do You Need a Well Casing?

• Keep out Contaminants: It prevents surface water, dirt, and other nasties from entering the well and contaminating your water.
• Structural Support: It keeps the wellbore from collapsing and provides stability to the well.
• Corrosion Protection: It safeguards the pump and other well components from the corrosive effects of groundwater.
• Water Flow Regulation: It controls the flow of water into and out of the well, preventing excessive groundwater withdrawal.

So there you have it, the not-so-boring story of well casings. They may be hidden underground, but they play a vital role in delivering clean, safe water to your home. Remember, when you’re sipping on that refreshing glass of water, don’t forget to thank the unsung hero beneath the surface – the well casing.

Well Screens: The Unsung Heroes of Your Water Well

If your water well was a superhero, its well screen would be its trusty sidekick. It’s the unsung hero that keeps your water clean and sediment-free, ensuring you don’t end up with a mouthful of dirt every time you turn on the tap.

What Is a Well Screen?

Think of a well screen as a super-fine filter that prevents sand, silt, and other nasty stuff from sneaking into your water supply. It’s installed at the bottom of your well casing, where it surrounds the perforated pipe that draws water into the well.

Types of Well Screens

There are two main types of well screens:

• Continuous Slot Screen: These screens have a series of narrow, closely spaced slots that let water through but keep out unwanted particles. They’re the most common type of screen and work well in most conditions.
• Slotted Pipe: These screens have wider slots than continuous slot screens, so they’re better suited for wells with high sediment content. They’re also easier to install and maintain.

How Do Well Screens Work?

• Well screens are made from perforated or slotted pipe, allowing water to enter the well while preventing sediment and other particles from entering.
• The size of the slots or perforations determines the “slot size,” which is a critical factor in determining the screen’s filtration efficiency.
• Screens are designed to wrap around the well casing and are secured in place to prevent collapsing or movement.

Choosing the Right Well Screen

The type of well screen you need depends on the specific conditions of your well, including:

• Water depth
• Pump type and capacity
• Groundwater chemistry
• Sediment levels

Consulting with a qualified well driller can help you select the optimal well screen for your needs.

Foot Valve: The Unsung Hero of Your Water Well

Picture this: you’re enjoying a refreshing glass of water from your trusty well, unaware of the unsung hero working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the water flowing and free from nasty surprises. That unassuming hero is none other than the foot valve.

What’s a Foot Valve, Anyway?

Think of a foot valve as a one-way door for your well. It’s installed at the bottom of the well, right above the pump intake. Its job is to allow water to flow up into the pump while simultaneously preventing water from flowing back down into the well.

Why is a Foot Valve Important?

Without a foot valve, several things can go wrong:

• Water Backflow: If water can flow back down into the well, it can contaminate the water supply with sediment, bacteria, or anything else that may be lurking in the depths.
• Pump Priming Issues: Pumps can’t magically suck water out of a dry pipe. A foot valve ensures that water is always present at the pump intake, making priming a breeze.
• Pump Damage: Running a pump without water can lead to overheating and premature failure. The foot valve ensures that the pump only operates when there’s water to pump.

How Does a Foot Valve Work?

It’s all about the flap. Foot valves have a hinged flap that opens when water flows toward the pump and closes when water tries to flow back down. The flap’s weight and the water’s pressure work together to keep the valve shut when necessary.

Types of Foot Valves

There are two main types of foot valves:

• Swing Check Valves: The flap swings open and closed like a gate.
• Ball Check Valves: A ball rests on the seat of the valve, blocking water flow when there’s no pressure.

Installing a Foot Valve

Foot valves are relatively easy to install. Just follow these steps:

1. Remove the existing well cap.
2. Clean the well casing and any threads.
3. Apply thread sealant to the threads of the foot valve.
4. Screw the foot valve onto the casing.
5. Tighten the foot valve securely.
6. Replace the well cap.

Don’t Ignore the Foot Valve

A foot valve may seem like a small part of your well system, but its importance is underappreciated. It’s the guardian of your water supply, preventing contamination and ensuring your pump operates smoothly. So, give your foot valve the love it deserves and enjoy a glass of pristine water that’s free from unexpected hazards.

Pump Housing: The Heart of Your Water Well’s Pumping System

Picture this: You’re taking a relaxing shower, humming your favorite tune. Suddenly, the water goes cold and you hear a faint humming sound. You might think it’s your singing skills, but it’s probably your pump housing having a little meltdown.

The pump housing is like the fortress that protects the most important part of your water well’s pumping system: the impeller. It’s made of sturdy materials like stainless steel or cast iron to withstand the harsh conditions inside a well.

But what exactly does this mighty fortress do? It provides a safe haven for the impeller to spin freely, creating the whirlwind that draws water up from the depths. The housing also regulates the flow of water, ensuring a steady supply to your thirsty taps.

Fun Fact: The pump housing is like the bodyguard of the impeller, keeping it safe from the sand, dirt, and other subterranean hazards that lurk in your well.

So, when it comes to your water well’s pumping system, the pump housing is the unsung hero, making sure you always have a steady stream of clean water for your showers, laundry, and all your other water-guzzling activities.

The Impeller: The Heart of Your Water Well’s Pumping System

Picture this: your water well is like a magical fountain of life, and the impeller is the merry maestro who keeps the water flowing like a symphony. It’s a remarkable invention that transforms a humble motor’s spin into a force that raises water from the depths below.

The Design of a Mighty Impeller

Imagine a propeller that’s been given a supercharged makeover. That’s your impeller! Its blades, usually made of sturdy materials like stainless steel or brass, are set at an angle that’s just right for catching water and flinging it outwards.

How the Impeller Works

Well, here’s where the magic happens: as the motor whirs, it spins the impeller, which in turn whooshes through the water. This creates a low-pressure area at the center of the impeller, and like any respectable vacuum cleaner, it sucks water into the pump.

The impeller’s blades then do their thing, pushing the water outwards, creating pressure that forces the water up the well and into your home. It’s a relentless rhythm, a dance between the motor, the impeller, and the water, all working in perfect harmony to keep your taps flowing.

Types of Impellers

Just like different dance moves, impellers come in various types:

• Open: These impellers have a straight blade design, making them ideal for handling larger particles like sand or silt.
• Semi-Open: They have slightly curved blades, striking a balance between efficiency and particle handling.
• Closed: These impellers have fully enclosed blades, making them the speed demons of the impeller world.

Choosing the Right Impeller

Selecting the right impeller is like choosing the perfect shoes for a glamorous night out. It all depends on your well’s specific needs. If your water has a lot of sediment, an open or semi-open impeller will keep things moving smoothly. For sparkling clear water, a closed impeller will give you the best performance.

Remember, the impeller is the maestro of your water well’s pumping system. Treat it right, and it’ll keep your taps flowing with the elixir of life for years to come.

Delve Into the World of Water Well Pumps: The Magical Shaft that Powers Your Water Flow

Imagine your water well as a symphony orchestra, with each component playing a harmonious tune to bring you a refreshing symphony of clean water. Among these essential players, the shaft stands tall, a maestro that orchestrates the power transfer from the motor to the impeller.

Just like the conductor wields the baton, the shaft acts as the conductor in your water well’s pump assembly. It’s the sturdy backbone that transmits the motor’s commanding force to the impeller, the spinning heart of your pump. Without this vital connection, your water flow would be reduced to a mere whisper.

Shafts come in various shapes and sizes, each tailored to specific pump designs. They may be sleek and slender or stout and robust, depending on the pump’s capacity and depth. However, they all share a common goal: to provide a smooth and efficient pathway for power transmission.

Fun Fact: Did you know that shafts sometimes have a special coating to protect them from the corrosive effects of water? Just like superheroes wear capes to fight villains, these coatings shield the shafts from the relentless onslaught of minerals and chemicals present in the water.

So, there you have it, the unsung hero of your water well system: the shaft. It may not be the flashiest or most glamorous component, but without its tireless efforts, you’d be left high and dry. So, raise a glass to the mighty shaft, the silent conductor that keeps your water flowing strong!

Motor: The Powerhouse of Your Water Well

Picture this: you’re at a water pump, frantically pumping away, your arms growing weary. Suddenly, a magical machine appears, churning away effortlessly, delivering crystal-clear water to your parched lips. That, my friends, is the power of a water well motor.

Now, there’s more than meets the eye in these motors. They come in all shapes and sizes, each with its own unique quirks and strengths. Let’s dive into the world of water well motors and explore the types you’ll encounter:

• Submersible Motors: These bad boys live it up underwater, submerged in your well. They come in direct drive models, where the motor shaft drives the impeller directly, or close-coupled models, where the motor is connected to the pump head. Submersible motors love to cool themselves with the surrounding water, making them a fantastic choice for deep wells and harsh environments.

• Jet Pumps: Meet the jet-setting motors that pump water using a venturi vacuum. They suck up water like a thirsty straw and can pull water from depths of 25 feet or more, making them perfect for shallow wells. However, they require a second source of water to operate, so consider them the “synergy” of the motor world.

• Centrifugal Pumps: These guys work wonders by spinning impellers that fling water outward. They’re great for shallow wells and can handle high volumes of water, so they’re often used in irrigation systems. They need a primer to get started, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for an instant gratification pump.

From horsepower to efficiency ratings, choosing the right motor is like selecting a superhero for your water well. Whether you’re venturing deep into the earth or just need a little lift, there’s a motor out there to make your water dreams come true.

Control Panel: The Pump’s Mission Control, Keeping Your Water Flowing

Every superhero needs a trusty sidekick, and for your water well pump, that sidekick is the control panel. It’s the brain behind the operation, monitoring and regulating your pump’s performance to keep your water flowing smoothly.

Inside this control panel, a team of electrical components work together like a well-oiled machine. Let’s meet the squad:

• Buttons: These are your pump’s “go” and “stop” controls. A simple press powers on your pump, and another press sends it into hibernation.
• Lights: They’re not just for decoration! These lights indicate the pump’s status. Green means it’s running happily, while red means it’s time for a check-up.
• Gauges: These nifty dials keep an eye on your water pressure. If the pressure drops below a certain level, the control panel sends a signal to the pump to kick into gear and restore the flow.

So, there you have it, the control panel – the unsung hero of your water well system. It’s the brains behind the brawn, ensuring your water flows without a hitch. Now, go forth and appreciate this amazing device every time you turn on the faucet!

The Water Pressure Switch: The Guardian of Your Water Flow

Imagine your water well as a kingdom, with the water pressure switch as its vigilant guardian. This unsung hero ensures that your faucets flow and your showers sing on demand.

Types of Pressure Switches:

• Mechanical: These trusty gatekeepers use a spring or diaphragm to sense pressure changes. When the pressure drops, they say, “Start the pump!”
• Electronic: The modern knights of the pressure realm, they use sensors to monitor water pressure with digital precision.

Operation:

The pressure switch is like a wise sorcerer, constantly monitoring the water pressure in your kingdom. When the pressure falls below a certain threshold, it commands the pump to awaken from its slumber and start pumping water. And when the reservoir is full, the switch whispers, “Stop, my valiant pump!”

Adjustment:

Think of the pressure switch as a dial that you can tweak to set the desired water pressure for your realm. Turning it clockwise increases the pressure, while turning it counterclockwise lowers it.

So, there you have it, the water pressure switch—the guardian that keeps the water flowing in your kingdom. Give it a nod of appreciation next time you turn on the tap.

Protect Your Water Well System: Circuit Breakers and Fuses, the Electric Guardians

Your water well system is like a knight in shining armor for your home, providing you with a steady flow of fresh, clean water. But behind every knight, there are valiant protectors, and for your water well, that’s the circuit breaker and fuse.

Circuit Breakers: The Superheroes of Electricity

Think of a circuit breaker as Superman, ready to leap into action if there’s a power surge. Just like Superman, a circuit breaker breaks the electrical connection when too much current flows through it. It’s like a force field, shielding your water well system from electrical overloads that could damage your precious pump.

Fuses: The Sacrificial Lambs of Circuit Protection

Fuses are like Spiderman, selflessly sacrificing themselves to protect your water well system. When the current gets too high, a fuse blows, breaking the circuit and preventing any further damage. It’s like Spiderman’s web, trapping the danger and keeping it away from your pump.

Which One Do You Need?

Whether you need a circuit breaker or a fuse depends on the type of water well pump you have. If your pump has a motor, you’ll need a circuit breaker. But if your pump is driven by a pressure switch, you’ll need a fuse.

The Importance of Circuit Protection

Without proper circuit protection, a power surge or electrical overload could fry your water well pump, leaving you with a dry well and a very thirsty household. So, make sure your water well system has the right circuit breaker or fuse to keep it safe and sound.

Regular Check-ups: The Key to Staying Safe

Just like your knight needs regular maintenance to keep his armor shiny, your circuit breaker and fuse need regular check-ups to ensure they’re ready for action. Regularly inspect them for any signs of damage or wear, and replace them if necessary. This simple step can save you a lot of headaches and keep your water well system flowing smoothly for years to come.

Remember: Circuit breakers and fuses are the unsung heroes of your water well system, protecting it from electrical dangers and ensuring you always have access to the life-giving resource we call water.

Electrical Wiring: The Unsung Hero of Your Water Well System

When it comes to your water well system, the electrical wiring is like the invisible backbone that brings the whole thing to life. Without it, your pump wouldn’t power up, and your water would just be a sad puddle at the bottom of the well.

There are several different types of electrical wiring used in water well systems, but they all have one thing in common: they need to be properly installed. This isn’t a job for the faint of heart or your mischievous pet raccoon. You need a licensed electrician who knows what they’re doing.

Why is proper installation so important? Well, for starters, it’s a safety hazard if it’s not done right. You could end up with an electrical fire or even electrocution. Plus, if the wiring is faulty, your pump won’t work as efficiently, and you’ll end up with less water flowing through your taps.

So, if you’re thinking about tackling the electrical wiring yourself, think again. It’s not worth the risk. Call in a pro and let them take care of it. They’ll make sure your wiring is safe and up to code, so you can enjoy a reliable water supply for years to come.

Remember, it’s not the flashiest part of your water well system, but the electrical wiring is essential. It’s the glue that holds everything together, so don’t neglect it. Treat it with the respect it deserves, and it will reward you with years of trouble-free service.

Pressurized Perfection: Understanding Pressure Tanks

Remember that time you turned on the faucet and poof – no water? That’s where pressure tanks come in, the unsung heroes of your home’s water system. Like a giant water balloon, they store pressurized water, ensuring that when you crave a refreshing drink or a relaxing shower, water flows freely and effortlessly.

Pressure tanks come in various types, each with its own quirks and capabilities. The classic bladder tank houses a rubber bladder inside a steel shell. As water fills the tank, it expands the bladder, creating pressure. When you turn on the faucet, that pressure pushes water through the pipes, giving you the steady stream you rely on.

Diaphragm tanks, on the other hand, use a flexible diaphragm to separate air and water. As water enters, it compresses the air, creating the same pressurized effect. These tanks are less prone to waterlogging, making them a popular choice for areas with high water usage.

Now, here’s a fun fact: pressure tanks work like a team. They have a little helper called a pressure switch. This clever device monitors the pressure in the tank. When it drops below a certain level, it signals the pump to kick into action, refilling the tank and maintaining optimal water pressure.

So, whether you’re washing dishes or watering your lawn, pressure tanks are the backbone of your water distribution system, ensuring that every drop reaches you with the perfect amount of force. They’re the silent heroes behind every glass of water and every refreshing shower.

Water Distribution Pipe: The Unsung Hero of Your Water System

Imagine your water well as a big water dispenser, with the pump acting as the spigot. Just like any dispenser, you need pipes to carry the water from the spigot to your glass. That’s where water distribution pipes come in. They’re the unsung heroes of your water system, making sure you have a steady stream of water at your tap.

What Are Water Distribution Pipes?

Water distribution pipes are the tubes that carry water from the well to your home. They’re like the veins and arteries of your water system, transporting the lifeblood of your home. Made of various materials like plastic, copper, or iron, these pipes come in different diameters and lengths to fit your water needs.

Types of Distribution Pipes

Just like there are different types of roads for different traffic, there are different types of water distribution pipes for different purposes. PVC pipes are the most common type, known for their durability and affordability. Copper pipes are more expensive but more resistant to corrosion. Iron pipes are strong and can withstand high pressure, making them suitable for larger-scale systems.

Installation Considerations

Installing water distribution pipes is not a DIY project. It requires expertise and specialized tools to ensure proper installation and avoid leaks that could be a pain in the neck later on. The type of pipe you choose, the route it takes, and the depth it’s buried at are all important factors to consider.

Choosing the Right Pipe

Selecting the right pipe for your water distribution system is like choosing the right shoes for a hike. You need to consider factors like the pressure within the system, the volume of water you’ll need, and the corrosion resistance required. A certified plumber can help you determine the best pipe for your home’s specific needs.

Protect Your Pipes

Just like you wear gloves to protect your hands, your water distribution pipes need protection from freezing and root intrusion. Insulating pipes in cold climates and installing barriers around them can help prevent damage and costly repairs.

Maintaining Your Pipes

Regular maintenance is key to keep your water distribution pipes flowing smoothly. Inspect them for leaks, corrosion, or damage. If you notice any issues, don’t ignore them. Call a licensed plumber to address the problem promptly and avoid bigger headaches down the road.

So, there you have it. Water distribution pipes may not be the most glamorous part of your water system, but they’re essential for delivering the life-giving liquid to your home. Treat them with care, and they’ll reward you with years of reliable water service.

Valves: The Gatekeepers of Your Water Highway

Picture your water distribution system as a bustling water highway, with water flowing along pipes like cars on a road. Just like traffic signals control the flow of vehicles, valves are the gatekeepers of your water’s journey. They allow you to regulate the flow, direct it where you want it, and even shut it off in a pinch.

Types of Valves

• Gate valves: These are your big, beefy valves, like the toll booths at the entrance of the highway. They’re designed to fully block or allow the flow of water and are often used in main lines or where you need a lot of control.
• Ball valves: Think of these as the sleek, modern cars of the valve world. They use a rotating ball inside to regulate water flow. They’re quick and easy to operate, making them perfect for indoor plumbing or quick shut-offs.
• Check valves: These one-way valves are like bouncers at a party – they only allow water to flow in one direction, preventing backflow. They’re essential for preventing water from backing up into your pump or other parts of your system.
• Pressure relief valves: These are the safety valves of the water world. They open automatically when water pressure gets too high, like a pop-off valve on a pressure cooker. They protect your pipes and appliances from damage.

Choosing the Right Valve

Picking the right valve is like choosing the right car for your road trip. Consider the size of your pipes, the water pressure, and the purpose of the valve. Gate valves are great for large pipes and high pressures, while ball valves are versatile and easy to use. Check valves are essential for preventing backflow, and pressure relief valves are crucial for safety.

So, next time you’re looking at your water fixtures, remember the unsung heroes behind the scenes – the valves. They’re the gatekeepers of your water highway, ensuring it flows smoothly and safely to where it needs to go.

Well Drillers: The Underground Explorers

Ah, the well drillers, the unsung heroes of our water supply! These skilled professionals are the ones who venture deep into the earth, armed with their trusty rigs, to bring us the life-giving liquid we rely on every day.

Expertise and Licensing: The Keys to Success

Becoming a well driller isn’t just about knowing how to operate a drill. These guys (and gals!) need specialized knowledge in geology, hydrology, and drilling techniques to ensure they find water where others may fail. They also undergo rigorous training and obtain state licenses, proving their competence and adherence to industry standards.

Equipment: The Tools of the Trade

Drilling a well is no easy feat. Well drillers rely on a fleet of heavy-duty equipment, including:

• Drilling rigs: These massive machines bore down into the ground, cutting through rock and soil.
• Bits: Special drill heads designed to penetrate different types of rock formations.
• Casing: Pipes that line the wellbore, preventing collapse and contamination.
• Screens: Perforated pipes that allow water to enter the well while keeping out unwanted materials.

The Drilling Process: A Tale of Perseverance

With their equipment in place, well drillers embark on a journey that can take days or even weeks. They start by digging a shallow hole, then insert the drill rig and begin the descent. Using a combination of rotary drilling and percussion drilling, they chew through layers of earth, searching for aquifers—underground water-bearing formations.

The Eureka Moment: Striking Water

When the drillers finally hit water, it’s like winning the lottery! But the job’s not done yet. They need to install the casing and screen, ensuring the well is stable and free from contaminants. Once everything is in place, they conduct water testing to confirm its quality and yield.

The Importance of Well Drillers

Well drillers play a crucial role in our daily lives. Without their expertise and hard work, we wouldn’t have access to clean, safe water. They are the silent guardians of our underground water resources, ensuring we can quench our thirst and nourish our communities. So, next time you turn on your faucet, remember to give a silent thanks to the well drillers who made it possible.

**The Underground Symphony: Your Comprehensive Water Well Guide**

Verse 1: Well Construction

Meet the wellhead, the doorway to your liquid gold. It protects your well casing, the steel or plastic backbone that keeps your water clean. And let’s not forget the well screen, the filter that ensures you’re sipping on crystal-clear H2O. Oh, and the foot valve, the unsung hero that prevents a watery symphony in reverse.

Chorus: Pump Assembly

Now, let’s venture into the pump’s heart, the pump housing. It’s like the conductor of the water orchestra, directing the flow. The impeller is the rockstar, spinning to create the suction that draws water up. And the shaft? It’s the trusty bridge, carrying power from the motor to the impeller. Finally, the motor, the powerhouse that drives the entire show.

Verse 2: Electrical Components

These electrical players keep the pump in rhythm. The control panel is the maestro, monitoring and guiding the pump’s performance. The pressure switch is the gatekeeper, starting and stopping the pump to maintain a harmonious flow. And don’t forget the circuit breaker and fuse, the safety guardians that protect the system from electrical hiccups.

Chorus: Water Distribution System

Now, let’s follow the water’s journey as it dances through the pressure tank. This tank ensures a steady supply of water, smoothing out any pressure fluctuations. The water distribution pipe is the water’s highway, carrying the vital liquid to your faucets. And the valves act as watchful guardians, regulating the flow and ensuring that everything stays in balance.

Verse 3: Related Entities

Enter the well drillers, the architects of your underground water source. With their expertise, they construct the foundation for your well’s success. And last but not least, the pump installers, the maestros who carefully select and install your pump, ensuring that your water symphony flows strong and clear.