Iron in well water is a common issue, often leading to aesthetic problems like staining in a toilet or sink and possibly a metallic taste if at high enough levels. Iron is a naturally occurring element and is often found in well water due to its presence in the earth's crust and its ability to dissolve in groundwater. Elevated iron (Fe) levels are not generally associated with posing a direct health risk.

Iron can be present in two main forms:

1. Ferrous ion (Fe²+; dissolved, clear water) and
2. Ferric iron (Fe³+; oxidized, reddish-brown sediment, better known as ‘rust’). Treatment methods vary depending on the type and amount of iron present and may include filtration, water softeners, or chemical oxidation systems.

Iron Bacteria

Iron bacteria are microorganisms that feed on ferrous iron (dissolved iron) in water. These bacteria play a role in both natural processes and in human-made systems, such as water distribution pipelines, where they can cause clogging and discoloration. These bacteria are known to convert ferrous iron (Fe²+) into ferric iron (Fe³+), which is insoluble and often appears as a rusty colored reddish-brown slime or sludge. They are typically found in oxygen-rich environments like well water and are not inherently harmful to humans.

Iron can also be present in the form of iron bacteria, which can form slimy, reddish-brown deposits in pipes and fixtures or on the surface of stagnant ground water. There are known problems associated with high iron concentration sin well water:

• Staining: Red or brown stains on laundry, dishes, and plumbing fixtures (sinks, toilets).
• Metallic taste: A metallic or inky taste in drinking water and beverages.
• Clogged pipes: Iron bacteria and sediments can clog pipes and reduce water flow.
• Damage to appliances: Can reduce the lifespan of washing machines, dishwashers, and other appliances.
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How Can You Test for Iron In Well Water?

The simplest way to recognize that iron may be present in your well water is by performing a visual inspection. If you see orange or rust colored stains on porcelain fixtures, that is usually a sign of iron being present in the water. If a well or faucet is not used for a period, sometimes dark colored water contaminated with iron will come out initially. After a period, when the well tank is flushed and water is drawn from the well, the color will dissipate. The ‘dirty’ colored water is from iron that has settled in the lines and was flushed when the system was turned on to draw water.

The other and more accurate way to assess iron in your water is to have a certified testing laboratory do the prescribed testing for metals. Professional water testing can accurately determine the type and amount of iron present and be less subjective than a visual examination. Once you have a result from the laboratory you can compare it to the EPA’s Secondary Maximum Contaminant Level for iron in drinking water is 0.3 milligrams/L or (0.3 parts per million).

There are several treatment options depending on the extent of the iron contamination levels. The use of sediment filters are the most common and effective for removing ferric iron (rust particles).  A water softening system can remove ferrous iron by ion exchange, but not ferric iron. These systems can also affect other metals in your well water (i.e. Calcium, Magnesium). A more extreme treatment option is Chemical oxidation. This process involves adding a chemical (like chlorine) to oxidize the iron from its ferrous iron (Fe²+) state into its ferric iron (Fe³+) state, making it easier to filter.

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