
Iron may get into your well water through seepage, which happens when rainwater or melted snow flows down into the soil and into the well water supply. It generally appears as reddish-brown stains in your showers and faucets, although it is not hazardous.
If you have concerns about iron in your well water, this article will guide you in determining whether or not it’s there. Most homes will find that testing for iron in the water is simple, and iron-free water may be obtained using one of several purification techniques.
What Are The Effects Of Having Too Much Iron In Your Well Water?
While iron in small quantities is not dangerous, too much of it can cause health problems. Large amounts of iron in your water supply can lead to:
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Black stools
Clogging of Pipes
Iron is one of the most common elements on Earth, and it can cause problems in your plumbing if it’s not removed from your water. Over time, iron will build up in your pipes and fixtures, causing clogs and reducing water flow. In extreme cases, it can even cause pipe failure.
Skin and Hair Issues
If you have iron in your water, you may notice that your skin and hair are drier than usual. This is because the iron is robbing them of moisture. In addition, your hair may take on a reddish tinge, and your skin may develop a rash.
Laundry Issues
Iron-heavy water can cause stained clothing, particularly if you have hard water. These stains will be more difficult to remove, and your clothes may not look as bright and white as they did before.
Discolored Water
One of the most obvious signs of iron in your water is discoloration. When you turn on your faucet, the water may be red, brown, or yellow. This is because the iron has oxidized, or rusted.
Tastes and Smells Bad
Another common symptom of iron in your water is that it tastes and smells bad. The water may have a metallic taste, or it may smell earthy or musty.
What Causes Iron In Well Water?
Several factors can contribute to iron in your well water. These include:
- Runoff from iron-rich rocks or soil
- corroding pipes
- old well water pumps
- seepage from surface water sources
How to Test for Iron in Your Water
The best way to determine if you have iron in your well water is to have it tested by a professional. However, there are also home testing kits available. These can be found at most hardware stores or online.
To test your water for iron, simply follow the instructions that come with the kit. You will usually need to collect a sample of your water in a clean container and then add a testing agent. The agent will change color if iron is present in the water.
If you test your water and find that it does contain iron, don’t worry. There are several ways to remove it.
Types of Iron in Well Water
There are three forms of iron in well water:
- Ferrous iron
- Ferric iron
- Bacterial iron
The type of iron in your well water will determine the best method for removal. The two most common types of iron are ferric and ferrous.
Ferric Iron
Ferric iron is the most common type of iron found in well water. It is also known as oxidized iron because it has been exposed to oxygen, which causes it to rust. Ferric iron is typically found in water that contains high levels of dissolved oxygen, such as surface water sources.
Ferrous Iron
Ferrous iron is also known as reduced iron because it has not been exposed to oxygen. This type of iron is usually found in deep wells where there is little or no dissolved oxygen.
Bacterial Iron
Bacterial iron is a type of iron that is produced by bacteria. This type of iron is usually found in water that contains high levels of organic matter, such as surface water sources.
How to Remove Iron from Your Water
The most common way to remove iron from water is with a water filtration system. These systems are designed to remove impurities from your water, including iron. There are many different types of water filtration systems on the market, so you’ll need to choose one that is designed for iron removal.
Water Softeners
Another option is to use a water softener. These devices work by exchanging the magnesium and calcium in your water for sodium. This process also removes iron from your water.
Chemical Treatment
Finally, you can also remove iron from your water using a chemical treatment. This involves adding a chemical oxidizer to your water, which will cause the iron to precipitate out. Once the iron has settled, you can then filter it out of your water.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that your water is safe to drink.
Iron in well water is a common problem, but it can be easily remedied. By testing your water and using one of the above methods, you can remove iron from your water and enjoy clean, safe drinking water.
