Well Water Problems

Water Acidity

Acidity of water measured on a scale from 0-14 called the pH scale. A pH level of 7 is neutral and anything lower than this indicates acidic water. The lower the number, the more acidic it is.

Symptom

Corrosion of brass fixtures, copper plumbing, steel tanks and heating elements, resulting in bluey-green stains on sinks and bath tubs.

Diagnosis

Look to see if there is corrosion of any of the areas highlighted in the symptoms or test the ph of the water by Litmus paper testing. Blue litmus paper turns red in the presence of an acid. Red litmus paper turns blue in the presence of a base. If the paper stays the same colour or shows a base is present then you don't have this problem. You can buy Litmus paper from clicking here online at just $2.95

Cure

Neutralising calcite filter or chemical feed system, using soda ash to remove acidity (raise pH), or to remove alkalinity (lower the pH) then use white vinegar or citric acid.

High Iron Content

Symptom

High iron content will begin to stain your teeth at 0.3 parts per million (ppm), You may also notice browny orange stains on tubs, sinks and laundry.

Cure

Water Softeneners (for low concentrations of Iron < 5.0 mg/l), or Chlorination followed by Activated Carbon Filtration (for any concentration)

Disease-causing bacteria, viruses or protozoa

Because wells use groundwater, the water is generally safe for drinking as the overlying soil acts like filter, removing disease-causing micro-organisms.

Symptom

Because microbes are generally invisible to the naked eye, you may not be aware that your water supply is contaminated with them. Therefore it is vitally important that well water is tested on a regular basis (2 or 3 times a year) to ensure it is fit for consumption.

Depending on where you reside, bacteriological testing of well water is done either by the local health laboratory in your area or by a certified private laboratory. They will supply you with a clean, sterile sample bottle and the necessary instructions.

Prevention

To minimise the risk of contamination:

Ensure that your well is sitting correctly, and that it is properly located, constructed and maintained. It should be drilled to the correct depth with an adequate layer of protective soil.
Check the well cap regularly to ensure that it is securely in place and watertight.
Check pumps and pipes on a regular basis.
You should seal any joints, cracks or connections in the well casing.
Invesitagate any changes in water quality.
Direct surface drainage away from the well casing.
Do not allow surface water to collect near the well.
You should not locate the well downhill from any source of pollution, or contaminated surface water.
Test for bacteriological presence regularly and for chemical contamination if it is suspected.
Any change in the land use of the surrounding area should prompt you to test the water immediately.
Well water should be tested at once if there is a change in its colour, smell, taste or clarity.

Cure

UV Filters, Reverse Osmosis, Activated Carbon Filters, Distillers