How to Prevent Bacteria Forming in Drinking Water

The developed world enjoys some of the safest drinking water in the world. However, microorganisms like bacteria can still grow and sicken people if the water distribution system is not well maintained. People with well water are at risk because private wells are not subject to the treatment and filtration that municipal water supplies undergo. Taking preventive measures in drilling wells and continuous testing of water can prevent the growth of bacteria.

Things You'll Need

• Water Testing Kit

Show More

Instructions

Building or Closing Wells

• 1

  Have certified well-drillers build new wells on your property. Certified drillers understand how to drill wells in a manner that reduces the chance of bacteria infecting the well. Well drillers should disinfect any equipment, gravel pack and water used in the drilling process. Wells should be given shock chlorination treatment to disinfect the well before use.

• 2

  Slope the ground around the well so that runoff rolls away form the well. This will keep rainwater from directly entering the well and washing in contaminants.

• 3

  When closing off an old well, do not cut off the well casing below the land level. This could allow contaminants to flow in from rainwater runoff. Even if you are not planning on using the well, the bacteria could leach into the water in new wells.

• 4

  Have certified well-drillers fill or seal off the well. This will allow the well to be put out of use without contaminating the ground water. Do not dump anything into empty wells.

Regular Maintenance

• 5

  Test the well water annually for the presence of bacteria, nitrates, pollutants and other contaminants. These annual tests can warn of the presence of bacteria in the well and allow for remedial measures. Home testing equipment is available or you can have professionals test the water.

• 6

  Poorly maintained plumbing invites bacteria to enter.

  Regularly inspect the well parts for damage. A monthly visual inspection of the well, cap and pipes for damage or corrosion can identify potential problems and bacterial contamination sites. Quick repair and treatment of well water can prevent bacterial growth.

• 7

  Flooding can cause bacteria in well water.

  If the taste or color of the water changes, if family members or guests experience gastrointestinal problems after drinking water or if well parts are replaced, test the water. It is also good to test water if you have a new child as the baby will be more susceptible to bacteria. Test after natural disasters like floods or storms that damage the well.

• 8

  Maintain your septic systems; pump them out and inspect them regularly. A damaged, overflowing or leaking septic system can infect the well water supply with bacteria.