You asked, we answered. A hot online topic lately has been, “How do you fix well water that smells like sewage?” If you want to know the answer, you are in the right place.
Fixing well water that smells like sewage typically involves identifying the source of the odor and taking appropriate steps to eliminate it.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to address the issue:
Inspection
1. Identify the Source
Determine whether the sewage-like smell is present in both the hot and cold water. If it’s only in the hot water, there is likely an issue with your water heater. In the case that it’s in both, it might be related to the well water itself.
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2. Inspect the Well System
Examine your well system for any visible signs of contamination or damage. Check the well casing, the well cap, and the area around the well for potential sources of contamination.
3. Check the Well Water Quality
Test your well water for coliform bacteria, which can cause sewage-like odors. You may need to contact a local water testing laboratory for a comprehensive analysis.
Resolution
4. Disinfect the Well
If the water test indicates the presence of coliform bacteria, disinfecting the well is usually necessary. Here’s how to do it:
Consult your local health department or a water treatment professional for guidance and to ensure compliance with local regulations.
Follow their instructions for adding a disinfectant, typically chlorine, to the well. This will kill the bacteria causing the odor.
Flush the well and plumbing system with chlorinated water to ensure thorough disinfection.
Wait for the recommended contact time (usually 12-24 hours).
Flush the system again until you no longer smell chlorine.
5. Maintain Regular Well Water Testing
Continue to test your well water regularly to ensure that the problem does not recur.
6. Address Potential Well Problems
If the smell persists or returns, there may be well system issues that need professional attention. This could include problems with the well casing, the well pump, or the well’s proximity to sources of contamination. In such cases, it’s essential to consult a well water professional for a thorough inspection and repairs.
7. Prevent Future Contamination
To prevent future contamination, make sure your well cap is secure and sealed to keep out debris and surface water. Ensure that there are no nearby septic systems, animal waste, or other sources of contamination that could affect your well water.
8. Install a Water Filtration System
To further improve the quality and taste of your well water, consider installing a water filtration system. A water treatment professional can help you choose the appropriate system based on your specific water quality concerns.
Water Solutions are Nearby
Remember that working with well water can be complex, and it’s often best to seek professional assistance, especially for issues related to the well system itself. Proper well maintenance and regular water testing are key to ensuring your well water remains safe and free from unpleasant odors.
Check out these helpful resources on similar topics:
How Do You Get Rid of Water Smell?
Is it Okay to Drink Water that Smells?
Finding the Best System
What is the best water system for your well water? The best system means the right one for your needs. Getting it right includes testing your water to understand what’s in it.
Purity Bay specializes in a wide range of home water solutions, including tailor-made well-water filtration systems. Whether you need help selecting a water system or servicing an existing system, our experienced team can help you out!
