Disinfecting Wells

Disinfect flooded wells before they are used as a source of drinking water. To disinfect a well:

1. Scrub the pumproom and wash all equipment, including piping, pump and pressure tank.

2. Remove the well seal at the top of the casing. Pour a solution of 1 quart laundry bleach and 3 gallons of water into the top of the well. Pour the solution so it washes down the inside of the casing and the outside of the drop pipes. In some wells you will need only to remove a plug from the seal to pour the solution into the well.

3. Leave the solution in the well about 4 hours. Then pump it into the pressure tank and distribution system.

   Draw the chlorinated water into all piping by opening each faucet until the odor of chlorine is apparent. Leave the chlorine in the piping at least 2 hours. Then run the water until the taste and odor are no longer objectionable.