Bacteria and well safety

Private wells are not treated by anyone but the owner, and bacteria can enter through a damaged cap, a shallow casing, surface water after heavy rain, or a nearby septic system. Public health advice for private wells is to test for coliform and E. coli regularly. If a test comes back positive, the water should not be used for drinking until it is treated.

An ultraviolet disinfection system installed at the point of entry disinfects the water as it flows, with no chemicals and no change in taste. UV needs clear water to work, so it is installed after sediment filtration and, where needed, softening. The lamp is replaced every year. We also stock bacteria test kits and can direct you to the public health laboratory for certified testing.