The Coastal Health District urges private well owners to take precautions and disinfect any well that flooded during recent severe weather.
When a well is flooded, the water can become contaminated with bacteria that could cause waterborne illness. Disinfection of a flooded private well cannot begin until the water covering the affected well has receded.
Steps to disinfect flooded private wells
- Step 1: Thoroughly clean all accessible surfaces removing any loose debris. Then wash the area with a strong chlorine solution (1 quart of household bleach per 5 gallon of water).
- Step 2: Remove the well cap and add 1 gallon of non-scented household liquid bleach.
- Step 3: Run water from an outside faucet through a hose until a strong chlorine smell can be detected. Place the end of the hose in the well allowing the water to run down the sides of the casing and circulate for at least 15 minutes. Replace the well cap.
- Step 4: Turn off the hose and enter the home opening each tap, one at a time, until chlorine can be detected. Please include hot water faucets, toilets, bathtubs, washing machine, etc.
- Step 5: Once the chlorine odor reaches all outlets, let the water system stand for at least 8 hours and preferably overnight. Refrain from any water use during this time.
- Step 6: Flush the system of chlorine by turning on an outside faucet letting it run until the chlorine smell dissipates. Finally, run the indoor faucets until the water is clear and the chlorine smell is gone. Do not run any unnecessary water into the septic system or allow the chlorinated water to drain into a stream or pond. The well cannot be flushed too much!
- Step 7: The water should be tested to determine if it’s safe to drink. It is recommended that over the next several weeks two additional samples are taken, and the results are satisfactory. Well water can be tested at your local county health department or county extension office. Repeated chlorination and/or a well professional should be called if problems remain.
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