How to Remove Fecal Coliform Bacteria From Water

The microorganisms known as total coliform bacteria are mostly harmless and found in water, soil, plants and the intestines of warm-blooded animals. They aid in the digestive process. Within the category of total coliform bacteria are six species of fecal coliform bacteria, one of which is E. coli. Not all strains of E. coli are dangerous, but if you are concerned that you might have the dangerous strain 0157:H7 in your water supply, you should have a professional test your water for the presence of total coliform bacterias.

Things You'll Need

• Well repair supplies
• Water filtering system
• Pot
• Heat source

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Instructions

• 1

  Repair groundwater well walls. Fecal coliform is rarely found in groundwater. If surface water is able to leak into your groundwater source, however, your water may become contaminated. Check your well system and make any needed repairs to resolve leaks through the walls or through snow or rain runoff. The natural movement of groundwater will flush the bacteria from your water source once repairs are made.

• 2

  Use a filtering system with your cistern or plumbing system. Several types of commercial filtering systems are available for different sized cisterns and plumbing. Your treatment device must be changed and maintained according to manufacturer's instructions in order to keep fecal bacteria out of your water.

• 3

  Boil water. Any contaminated water that is intended for digestive use, including ice and teeth brushing, must be decontaminated before use. Bring the water to a full, rolling boil over high heat. Boil for one minute. Allow the water to cool. It is now safe for digestive use.

• 4

  Call a professional. If the previous measures don't work in your situation, contact a certified water inspector to recommend a professional to help you clean up your contaminated water. The professional may use distillation, chlorination, reverse osmosis or ultraviolet light to decontaminate your water supply.