Bacteria in Well Water — UV Disinfection & Treatment
Coliform bacteria contamination is a serious health concern. UV disinfection and chlorine injection eliminate bacteria at the point of entry.
Request Bacterial Treatment ConsultationBacteria in Private Well Water
Unlike municipal water supplies that are routinely disinfected with chlorine, private wells are unregulated and can become contaminated with bacteria through surface water intrusion, flooding, a cracked well casing, or nearby septic system influence. Total coliform and E. coli are the primary health-concern bacteria, while iron bacteria are a nuisance concern.
The EPA recommends testing well water for bacteria annually. If you have a new well, have experienced flooding, noticed a change in water taste or odor, or have had a plumbing repair, you should test immediately.
Types of Bacteria Found in Well Water
Total Coliform
A broad indicator organism. Presence signals possible contamination pathway and warrants further testing for E. coli.
E. coli
Fecal indicator bacteria. Presence confirms sewage or animal waste contamination — requires immediate remediation.
Iron Bacteria
Not a direct health hazard, but forms red-orange slime in toilet tanks and clogs pipes and irrigation systems.
Treatment Solutions
UV Ultraviolet Disinfection (Preferred)
A UV light system installed at the point of entry exposes all water to germicidal UV-C radiation, inactivating bacteria, viruses, and protozoa without adding any chemicals. Requires pre-filtration for clear water to be effective.
Chlorine Injection System
A chemical metering pump injects a precise dose of sodium hypochlorite into the water stream, followed by a contact tank and carbon filtration to remove residual chlorine. Effective for high bacteria loads and combined problems.
Shock Chlorination (One-Time Treatment)
For new wells or post-flooding events, a high-dose chlorine shock disinfects the entire well and distribution system. This is a temporary fix — ongoing disinfection systems are recommended if bacteria recur.
Concerned About Bacteria in Your Well?
We install UV disinfection and chlorination systems that protect your family at the point of entry — 24/7, automatically.