Description
When a well test indicates the presence of coliform bacteria, a Well Disinfection Service is the appropriate way to remove the bacteria from the well and supporting infrastructure. When bacteria are detected, the first line of disinfection is a non-invasive process using calcium hypochlorite. This FDA-approved powder is added to the well via the well head. After a period of five (5) days the water is re-tested to confirm the removal of the bacteria. During the five days the well can be used as normal.
Other conditions may necessitate well disinfection: anytime the well is opened for repairs; if flood water has entered a well; a new holding tank, pump or pressure tank has been installed; a new pipeline or other piping or plumbing work has been done; or odors or slime caused by iron or sulfur bacteria are present.
Health Implications
Coliform bacteria are often referred to as “indicator organisms”; while their presence is unlikely to cause an illness, they indicate the potential presence of disease-causing bacteria, such as E. coli, in water. In other words, their presence indicates that a contamination pathway exists between a source of bacteria (surface water, septic system, animal waste, etc.) and the water supply. Disease-causing bacteria may use this pathway to enter the water supply.
Allowing bacteria to grow in the well can be dangerous and lead to many health concerns. A first line of defense against bacteria is to disinfect the water system from the well through the entire infrastructure.
What to Expect
The Well Disinfection Service is performed by SafeWell Water Quality Specialists. The following is the service delivery process:
- Scheduled appointment
- Professional arrives at your home
- Removes well cap and adds disinfection powder
- Closes and secures the well head
- Well is used normally
- 5-10 days after service SafeWell returns to retest
- Sampled are delivered to a state certified lab
- Lab results are reviewed
- Next steps are identified
- Report is prepared and emailed
- Follow up phone discussion