Water Treatment

If you have problems with your water quality, then you may decide to use a treatment system to improve your well water. When selecting a treatment system you should select a system to address your specific needs rather than pay for a system that does more than you need. For instance, if you have a minor problem you may need only an under-the-counter filter system. If the problem is more severe you may need a more advanced water treatment system. Consult a professional when installing a water treatment system. First, try to identify the cause of the water quality problem. If possible remove the source of the problem rather than treat it.

Also, if your well is prone to droughts, then you should be aware that some of the water treatment systems require a lot of water for backwashing.

You can treat your water for bacteria, or other contaminants, but most systems protect your water from one or two specific parameters. Be aware of what you are filtering and what you are not. Below are examples of some of the more common systems. Be aware of the NSF rating (National Sanitation Foundation) of the system you choose . The NSF applies the ratings for equipment for a specific use so be sure you purchase a filter with the proper specifications.

For bacteria

If your water is contaminated, it is better to remove the source of the contamination than to treat the water. However, if the problem cannot be solved at the source, a number of water disinfection systems are available. Each system requires routine maintenance and regular testing of your water.

Chlorinators continuously add chlorine to your water distribution system, allowing sufficient contact time for the chlorine to kill the bacteria. These units must be checked often to ensure that the right amount of chlorine is being added.

Ultra-violet (UV) light filters use UV light to kill bacteria, viruses, and intestinal protozoa in pre-filtered water. A Class A system is required (NSF 55). Pre-filtration of water is generally required for this treatment to work properly. The light needs to be replaced regularly. Drinking water needs to be refrigerated after treatment.

Distillers boil water, then condense the vapour and collect it in another compartment.

Bacteria and minerals are removed, as well as some chemicals. Water should be filtered before treatment and refrigerated afterwards. Standard is NSF 62.

Ozonators inject small amounts of ozone gas into water to kill most bacteria. Treated drinking water should be refrigerated.

For other contaminants

WARNING: the following treatment systems do not kill bacteria.

Reverse osmosis removes some chemicals – but not bacteria – by passing pre-filtered water through a membrane. This process, which removes inorganic chemicals such as chloride and nitrate, is often used in combination with carbon filters. Reverse osmosis uses large amounts of water, which could be a concern if water supplies are limited or the septic tank is over-burdened. An option is to use Reverse Osmosis only for drinking water. The standard is NSF 58, but it may be certified under NSF 42 or 53.

Activated carbon filters (pitcher style, tap-mounted, or under-sink) can improve taste and odour and remove organic chemicals. Standard is NSF 42. Larger systems, often used as a pre-treatment for reverse osmosis and water softening systems, remove volatile organic compounds. Standard is NSF 53.

WARNING: bacteria can be trapped and multiply in a carbon filter. Regular maintenance is required .