This basic tool is simply a length of tubing or a hose with clear tubing attachments on each. When the tubing/hose filled with water the two ends can be held up and a level point established. See figure 1.

figure 1

To use this basic water level aquire a length of tubing or hose (with the clear fittings, like the Mayes or Johnson water level). The length doesn't matter but the diameter does; too small can cause surface tension problems (click here for more info), we recommend no smaller than 1/4" inner diameter tubing. Fill the tubing with water, with or without additives, until the water is within 2" to 12" of the end of each end. We recommend that you use some type of clamp or plug to close the ends off until you're ready to use, otherwise you'll likely spill water.

Now you're ready to go to work. If you're working by yourself then you'll need to attach the tubing to the first stake/location, see figure 2. If you working with another person they can hold it instead.

figure 2

Now take the other end and raise it raise it near the next stake/location. If you're using clamps then make sure they're removed by this point, the water needs to be able to move freely. After the water settles (stops moving) then you can mark this point, see figure 3.

figure 3

You have now established 2 level points as shown in figure 4. You can then move on to the next place and mark. Remember, if the tubing loses water or is moved, you're reference point is no longer good. You then have to re-establish this reference point by either moving the tubing up or down until the water matches the reference point or re-fill the tubing until it matches.

figure 4

The advantages of this type of water level are that it's very simple, inexpensive, and accurate. The disadvantages are that they can be a real pain to use becuase it's very easy spill the water (you then have to re-establish the reference point), and this type of water level will only provide a reference line - no measurements.