How to Remove Colloidal Iron

Excessive amounts of iron in a water supply can leave clothes dingy, with a rusty appearance. It also give water a metallic taste. Iron in the water supply often goes unnoticed until it is oxidized. Oxidation occurs when iron comes into contact with oxygen, leaving a reddish-brown residue or rust. Black particles in standing water may also indicate excessive iron. Colloidal iron is fine particles of ferric iron, often too small to be filtered using standard filtering systems.

Things You'll Need

• Water chemical analysis testing kit

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Instructions

• 1

  Perform a chemical analysis to determine the levels of iron in the water. The results will determine which method of removal is appropriate. Low pH levels may indicate iron pipe corrosion, which can be corrected by replacing damaged pipes. Obtain a fresh water sample by letting the water run for five to 10 minutes.

• 2

  Install a water softener for low levels of iron. Iron particles are removed by a process that combines sodium with a resin medium that binds to the iron. The process provides sufficient weight to the iron for removal along with the waste water. Frequent back washing and regeneration may be necessary to sufficiently remove the iron from the water supply.

• 3

  Aerate a water supply that is contaminated by excess iron. Aeration forces oxygen to mix with the water, which oxidizes the iron for efficient removal. This method eliminates the need for chemical treatment.

• 4

  Combine a water filtration system with chemical treatments for iron levels that exceed 10 ppm. Chlorine bleach and hydrogen peroxide are added to water for 20 minutes or more to oxidize iron, which is then filtered through the system. Aluminum sulfate may be used to filter smaller iron particles. Activated carbon filtration will remove excess chlorine left behind after treatment.