Animal farms are another leading cause of E. coli contamination. After a heavy rain, runoff from livestock and farm animals may carry into wells and contaminate well water. Wells that are closer to livestock are at a much higher risk of being contaminated.
Rainwater can also carry contaminants from soil, animal droppings, and more that may infiltrate wells. Surface runoff is especially problematic because it can contaminate wells from long distances away.
Understanding some of these common causes of E. coli contamination can help homeowners take preventive measures to secure their homes and ensure the safety of their drinking water. If you believe that your water may have been contaminated by E. coli, we highly recommend that you contact us today for E. coli testing. Regular water quality testing can help you detect these problems early and prevent serious health risks to those in your household.
Total Coliforms
Total coliforms are bacteria that are commonly found in soil. While they are not inherently harmful, their presence in well water typically indicates a pathway for contamination that may allow harmful bacteria, viruses, and even parasites to infiltrate the water supply. Regular water quality testing will help identify the presence of total coliforms and determine whether or not there has been a breach in your water system.
Common Causes of Total Coliform Contamination
Surface Water Intrusion
Surface water intrusion occurs when rainwater or floodwater carrying contaminants infiltrates the well. This is often due to heavy rainfall, flooding, or improperly constructed or maintained wells. Wells that are not secure and properly maintained are more prone to surface water intrusion, especially after heavy rainfall.
Contaminated Runoff
Flowing water may pick up contaminants that can infiltrate the groundwater. There are many different ways this might happen. After a heavy rain, pesticides, manure, and fertilizers may be washed into the groundwater. As mentioned earlier, it could also be caused by overflowing or malfunctioning septic systems that leak harmful bacteria into the groundwater. Runoff from streets in urban areas often carry contaminants like coliforms as well.
Biofilm Formation
A biofilm is a collection of bacteria that stick to surfaces in damp environments and form a protective habitat for coliforms and other pathogens. Biofilms often form within the well or the distribution system (well casings, pipes, etc.) and are hard to eliminate. The presence of biofilms increases the risk of waterborne illnesses and diseases, carrying harmful pathogens like E. coli, salmonella, and more.
If you are in the Virginia area and you believe that your water supply has been affected by either of these contaminants, Monticello Pump Services is able to provide water quality testing and E. coli testing to identify any issues you may be experiencing.
Testing Well Water for Total Coliforms
Total coliforms are a group of closely related bacteria that are (with few exceptions) not harmful to humans. Because total coliforms are common inhabitants of ambient water and may be injured by environmental stresses (e.g., lack of nutrients) and
water treatment (e.g., chlorine disinfection) in a manner similar to many pathogens, the EPA considers them a useful indicator of these pathogens. Health problems associated with these pathogens include diarrhea, cramps, nausea and vomiting. Together these symptoms comprise a general category known as gastroenteritis. Gastroenteritis is not usually serious for a healthy person, but it can lead to more serious problems for people with weakened immune systems, such as the very young, elderly, or immuno-compromised. Visit the
EPA’s site for more information on bacteria, parasites, and viruses which can get into our drinking water.
Water Quality Tests & Recommended Practices
The Environmental Protection Agency has regulations in place that protect public drinking water systems, however, there are no rules in place to protect privately owned wells. The EPA recommends that homeowners have their water tested annually to ensure the quality of your water.
A Water Quality Indicator Test (WQI) measures the presence of contaminants, such as Total Coliforms and E. Coli. In most cases, the presence of such contaminants is not cause for sickness. However, they may indicate the presence of sewage and other disease-causing bacteria in your water.
It is a good idea to have water quality testing done at least once a year if you have people with weakened immune systems, such as young or elderly, living in your home. It can also be helpful to
check your well casing frequently for any damage, such as holes due to corrosion or cracks, that can allow bacteria to enter your water.
Monticello Pump Services offers Water Quality Testing through state certified laboratories in Virginia.
Well Chlorination and Disinfection
Disinfection is an essential process that can be done either physically or chemically to help eliminate harmful microorganisms in your water supply.
Chemical Disinfection
Chlorine is a very effective chemical disinfectant that is used to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in well water. Adding chlorine to your well water and allowing it to sit for a specified period of time will help eliminate any harm presented by these microorganisms. Once the disinfection is complete, the system is flushed to remove any remaining chlorine.
Physical Disinfection
A common physical disinfectant that helps eliminate microorganisms is UV light. UV light works by damaging the DNA of the microorganisms, rendering them harmless. UV disinfection units are able to sterilize the water without altering its taste by exposing the water to UV light as it passes through the water supply line.
If your water has recently tested positive for bacteria, Monticello Pump Service offers well chlorination and dechlorination as part of our water quality service. We also offer a “Do-It-Yourself” well chlorination guide with easy to follow step-by-step instructions to save you money.
Benefits of Well Water
Natural Filtration
Water undergoes a natural filtration process as it travels through soil and rock layers. Soil acts as a natural filter by removing harmful bacteria and contaminants as it percolates down to the aquifer. The water can also dissolve beneficial minerals from the rocks and soil that enhance both the quality and taste.
Protection from Contaminants
Groundwater sources are often located very deep below the surface, which helps protect them from many surface contaminants. Surface water is exposed to pollutants and environmental factors all the time, while groundwater maintains a more consistent quality.
Health Benefits
Well water typically does not contain any chemical additives like chlorine or flouride, which some people may prefer for both taste and health purposes. Relying on a well for your water also reduces the dependency on municipal water supplies and can contribute to more sustainable water management practices.
There are many health and environmental benefits to using well water. By ensuring proper maintenance and regular performing water quality testing, homeowners can enjoy a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle, while enjoying a high-quality, dependable water supply.
How Monticello Pump Services Can Help Keep Your Home Safe
The EPA recommends annual water quality testing. E. coli testing is also important for ensuring that your water supply is safe and free of any harmful bacteria or other contaminants. Monticello Pump Services is proud to offer comprehensive water quality testing for E. coli and total coliforms, as well as chlorination and dechlorination services all throughout the state of Virginia. We are committed to helping you keep your water safe, and your household happy. It is important to remember to regularly test your well, properly maintain your septic system, and check your casings and pipes for any cracks or malfunctions. Our DIY well chlorination guide can help you through the disinfection process on your own. Trust Monticello Pump Services for all of your water quality needs.
Reach out today for more information about how we can keep your household safe.
