Introduction
Discolored water, such as rusty or red-colored water, issues can occur in homes with well water systems. The reddish-brown discoloration is due to iron in the water that has precipitated into rust particles. Rusting leads to staining of sinks, bathtubs, and laundry. Putting aside the health complications that rusty water may cause, the metallic taste of the water is also unpleasant. Luckily, there are several methods through which one can eliminate rust from well water.
Causes of Rust in Well Water
There are two main reasons why well water becomes contaminated with iron, which leads to rust:
- Natural Deposits – This metal can be found naturally in some of the well water sources. When water is pumped up through the system, the iron reacts with oxygen and is oxidized to form reddish rust particles.
- Old Pipes – Many people use iron pipes, fittings, or well casings, and these pipes rust and peel and then shed into the water. The iron dissolved in the solution is oxidized into rust when exposed to air.
Getting Your Water Tested
It is advisable to have your water analyzed by a certified laboratory before using rusty water. The results of the tests will reveal the presence of iron and manganese in your well water. This will assist in defining the most adequate water treatment technique depending on the prevailing contaminants. All the labs also offer iron bacteria testing to determine if there is microbial iron in well water.
Water Softening
A water softener can effectively remove moderate concentrations of dissolved iron in well water through a process known as ion exchange. When raw hard water is passed through the softener, calcium and magnesium ions are replaced with sodium ions, hence the softening of the water. Water softeners can reduce iron and rust, but are not effective for removing all rust particles from the water.
Pros:
- Softens water and eliminates iron and hardness minerals in one process
- Relatively low maintenance
Cons:
- Ineffective at iron concentrations above 5 to 10 mg/L; needs additional filtration
- It includes sodium in water, which some people don’t want
Oxidizing Filters
Oxidizing filters, commonly referred to as iron filters, rely on pulling oxygen into the filter media as water passes through it. This oxygen causes the oxidization of dissolved iron into solid iron particles that are then filtered out in the process.
Pros:
- Does not call for the use of extra chemicals
- Neutralizes both the dissolved and the particulate iron.
Cons:
- Filter media require cleaning from time to time
- Method is not practical, especially when higher iron concentrations are present
Chemical Injection Systems
Chemical injection is the process by which a given chemical, such as potassium permanganate, is introduced into the water before it comes into contact with the residents of the home. When the water with the added chemical is flowing through a tank or a filter, the iron particles aggregate, hence making it easier to filter.
Pros:
- Removes both dissolved and suspended iron through oxidation and filtration
- Tolerates higher iron levels
- Long hours that filter operates before media change
Cons:
- Requires storage tank and chemical injector pump
- Chemical handling required
Most Suitable for High Rust Levels
In the case of very high rust content in well water, that is, 8 to 10 mg/L or more, the easiest and most effective method of removal is by using a chemical injection system that employs an oxidizing chemical.
These whole house systems include:
- Oxidizing chemical storage tank and injection pump
- Multi-media filter to remove iron particles
- System control panel and valves
While intricate, the correct chemical injection system can manage the levels of rust in the well water to undetected levels and sustain such a performance for extended hours without requiring much attention. It is advisable to enlist the services of a water treatment professional to help put in this system.
Conclusion
Water stored in rusty wells that contain iron is a problem, but it has been found that it can be solved using several methods. It is good to test the water for iron and see if you need to use a water softener, an oxidation filter, or a chemical injection system to eliminate rust and get clean water again. It is important to note that whole-house iron removal systems, if well maintained, will supply rust-free water for many years. If you wish to put an end to rust stains, then it is worth considering installing one.
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