Getting rid of coliform bacteria in well water is essential to ensure that your drinking water is safe and free of harmful pathogens. Coliform bacteria, particularly E. coli, indicate contamination from human or animal waste, which can pose serious health risks. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to eliminate coliform bacteria from your well water.
1. Shock Chlorination
Shock chlorination is the most common and effective method for killing coliform bacteria in well water. It involves adding a high concentration of chlorine to disinfect the well and the water system.
Steps:
- Turn off the pump and remove the well cap: Make sure to access the wellhead.
- Calculate the amount of chlorine needed: Use unscented household bleach (5.25%-8.25% sodium hypochlorite). Typically, 2 quarts to 2 gallons of bleach is required, depending on the well depth and water volume. Check specific chlorine dosages for your well size.
- Add chlorine to the well: Pour the chlorine directly into the well, ensuring it reaches the entire water system. You may need to dilute the bleach with water first.
- Circulate the water: Run a hose from the nearest outdoor faucet back into the well. Let the water circulate for about 15-30 minutes to ensure the chlorine spreads throughout the system.
- Flush all faucets: Turn on every faucet in your home (including taps, showers, and outdoor spigots) until you smell chlorine. Let the chlorinated water sit in the pipes for 12-24 hours.
- Flush the system: After 12-24 hours, flush out the chlorine by running each faucet until the chlorine smell dissipates. This may take several hours, and you should avoid using the water during this process.
Pros:
- Highly effective at killing coliform bacteria.
- Simple and affordable.
Cons:
- Requires time for the process to complete (may take a day or two).
- Water may have a strong chlorine smell for several days.
Important Note:
- Re-test your water: After shock chlorination, it’s essential to test your water again to ensure the bacteria are gone. Wait 1-2 weeks after the treatment before re-testing.
2. Install a UV Water Purification System
A UV (ultraviolet) water purifier is an excellent solution for continuous protection against coliform bacteria. It works by using UV light to disinfect the water as it passes through the system, killing bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.
Steps:
- Install the UV purifier at the point of entry: The UV system should be installed where water enters your home, typically after a sediment filter, to ensure clear water passes through the UV lamp.
- Ensure proper pre-filtration: UV systems are most effective when the water is free of sediment and dirt, as these can shield bacteria from the UV rays. Install a sediment filter (5 microns or finer) before the UV purifier.
- Maintain the UV system: Replace the UV lamp annually or as per manufacturer recommendations to ensure effectiveness.
Pros:
- Provides ongoing disinfection without chemicals.
- Safe and environmentally friendly.
- Kills up to 99.99% of bacteria, including coliform and E. coli.
Cons:
- Requires electricity to function.
- Pre-filtration is necessary for optimal performance.
Top UV Systems:
- HQUA-OWS-12 Ultraviolet Water Purifier: A highly effective and affordable UV purifier.
- Viqua VH410 UV Water Disinfection System: Known for reliability and performance in treating coliform bacteria.
3. Install a Chlorinator System (Continuous Chlorination)
If coliform contamination is a recurring problem, installing a continuous chlorinator can ensure long-term protection. These systems automatically add small amounts of chlorine to your water supply to disinfect it before use.
Steps:
- Install a chlorine injection system: This system is typically installed at the water pump or where water enters the home. The chlorinator injects a controlled amount of chlorine into the water.
- Install a retention tank: A retention tank is necessary to allow the chlorine to mix with the water and have enough contact time to kill bacteria.
- Include a carbon filter: After the water is chlorinated, a carbon filter is used to remove excess chlorine, ensuring the water is safe and palatable.
Pros:
- Continuous protection against bacterial contamination.
- Effective for homes with ongoing coliform or other bacterial issues.
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance to replenish chlorine.
- May result in chlorine taste or smell if not properly filtered.
Top Systems:
- SpringWell Whole House Well Water Chlorinator System: A comprehensive solution for treating bacterial contamination.
- Pelican Water Chlorination System: Another reliable option for continuous chlorination.
4. Check and Repair Well Components
Sometimes, coliform bacteria enter your well due to structural issues, such as cracks or improper seals. Inspecting and repairing your well is a key part of keeping it free from contamination.
Steps:
- Check the well cap: Ensure it’s securely in place and free of cracks. Replace it if it’s damaged.
- Inspect the well casing: Look for any signs of cracks or damage that could allow surface water or contaminants to enter the well.
- Divert surface water: Ensure proper grading around the well to divert surface water away from the wellhead, preventing contamination from rain runoff or septic systems.
- Seal any cracks: Hire a licensed well contractor to seal or repair any visible cracks in the well casing or cap.
Pros:
- Helps prevent recurring contamination.
- Low cost to inspect and repair well components.
Cons:
- Not a treatment method—only preventive.
- May require professional assistance for repairs.
5. Use a Water Distiller
A water distiller is another highly effective way to ensure your drinking water is free of coliform bacteria. Distillers boil water and collect the steam, leaving bacteria, viruses, and contaminants behind.
Steps:
- Fill the distiller with contaminated water.
- The water is boiled, and the steam is condensed into clean water, leaving impurities, bacteria, and contaminants behind.
- Store the distilled water in clean, sanitized containers.
Pros:
- Removes bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and other contaminants.
- Provides pure drinking water.
Cons:
- Time-consuming: Distilling water is slow and typically used for drinking water only.
- Energy usage: Requires electricity to operate.
6. Re-test Water Regularly
After any treatment method, it’s crucial to re-test your water to ensure the coliform bacteria have been eliminated and the well is safe for use. It’s also a good idea to test your well annually to monitor for any new contamination.
Steps:
- Use an EPA-certified lab or water test kit to check for the presence of coliform bacteria.
- If the test shows that coliform is still present, repeat the shock chlorination process or consider installing long-term solutions like UV or chlorinator systems.
Pros:
- Ensures the water is safe for consumption.
Cons:
- Requires re-testing to ensure treatment effectiveness.
Conclusion:
The best way to remove coliform bacteria from your well water depends on whether the contamination is a one-time issue or a recurring problem:
- Shock chlorination is the most effective method for immediate treatment.
- UV purification systems and continuous chlorination offer long-term protection.
- Well repairs help prevent bacteria from entering in the first place.
Always re-test your water after treatment to ensure it’s safe for drinking and household use.