Thank you RLW and FLL. I have been carrying drinking water in summer and winter for the past three years and was beginning to feel that it was time to investigate well/alternative drinking water options. In the cold months, after the lake freezes, I can usually obtain enough water for washing, etc. by roof run-off and melting snow on the woodstove. However, when there is no snow or rain, it's a lot harder.
I tried using a cordless drill and transfer pump to draw water from the lake and this works very well if there is a hole to draw from. I found out the hard way that a long-shaft spade bit is not the way to drill a hole in the ice. There is no problem drilling, but as soon as the spade portion of the bit passes deeper into the ice, it immediately refreezes along the shaft. I haven't yet purchased an auger type bit, I keep hoping to find one at a yard sale. I will keep my eye out for a 4" ice auger too!
I do agree about keeping things simple, but having a permanent water supply would certainly make life easier....
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