Thursday, May 1, 2025

Why Clean Water Is Critical for Livestock Health



Clean water isn’t just a basic need—it’s the foundation of animal wellness and farm productivity. From weight gain to reproduction, hydration affects every part of your herd’s performance. But in rural areas, especially those on well or surface water, hidden contaminants may quietly impact health. Here's what you need to know to protect your animals.


Why Water Matters in Animal Agriculture

Water makes up to 80% of a livestock animal’s body. It supports:

  • Digestion

  • Milk production

  • Muscle growth

  • Temperature regulation

When water is of low quality or inconsistent, animals can suffer from suppressed immunity, slower growth, and poor reproductive outcomes.


Common Water Quality Problems on Farms

Some of the biggest culprits include:

  • Nitrates – From fertilizer or manure runoff. High levels can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth.

  • Sulfates – Naturally present, but too much causes diarrhea and poor feed intake.

  • Iron & Manganese – Needed in trace amounts, but high levels reduce nutrient absorption and damage digestion.

  • Standing water – Attracts bacteria, algae, and parasites like cyanobacteria, which can be deadly.


How to Test Livestock Water

  • Field kits are great for quick checks (TDS, nitrates, pH).

  • Lab testing is best for full analysis. Do it yearly—or more often if health problems appear.

Tip: Always test your well water after construction, flooding, or any significant changes in taste or smell.


Ideal Water Quality Guidelines

AnimalNitrate-NSulfates (ppm)TDS (ppm)
Horses<10<500<1,000
Cattle<10500–1,000<3,000
Sheep/Goats<10<500<2,000
Pigs<10N/A<1,000

Even if water seems “fine,” it could still contain contaminants affecting feed intake or reproduction.


Water Treatment Options for Farms

  • Carbon filters – Remove chlorine, odors, and chemicals. Great for city water.

  • UV systems – Disinfect without chemicals. Best for well or surface water.

  • Reverse Osmosis (RO) – Removes up to 99% of contaminants. Ideal for high-nitrate or metal-heavy areas.


Choosing the Right Filtration System

  • City water? A carbon filter may be enough.

  • Well water with iron/sulfur? Add a sediment filter and an iron removal system.

  • Surface water? Use sediment filters, UV, and maybe chlorination.

Every farm is different—test before you treat.


Water Needs by Season

  • Summer: Hydration is crucial. Heat stress lowers intake and production.

  • Winter: Ice or freezing pipes limit access. Animals may drink less due to cold water temperatures.

Tip: Use insulated lines or heated troughs to avoid cold-season dehydration.


Smart Monitoring Tools

Modern farms use:

  • Float sensors for low levels

  • Auto-fillers to keep water flowing

  • Alerts for leaks or low pressure

This technology helps you avoid dehydration or system failures, especially in remote pastures.


How Water Quality Impacts Reproduction

Nitrates are the biggest concern. Even “safe” levels for humans may harm pregnant livestock. Heavy metals like iron or manganese can also impact fertility. Clean, mineral-balanced water supports healthy pregnancies and stronger offspring.


Final Thoughts

Water isn’t just a support system—it’s a driver of herd health and farm success. Poor-quality water can cost you in vet bills, lost growth, and productivity. Testing regularly and using the right treatment system gives your livestock the best chance to thrive.

Helpful Resources:


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much water do livestock need?
It depends on the species and the weather. A dairy cow can drink 20–30 gallons per day. Sheep need 1–2 gallons.

2. What’s the safest water for livestock?
Clean, uncontaminated water. Avoid water with high nitrates, algae, or standing debris.

3. Can animals drink pond water?
Only if tested regularly for bacteria, parasites, and algae. Filtered is better.

4. How does heat affect hydration?
Drinking increases in heat. Animals may double their intake to stay cool.

5. What are signs of dehydration?
Lethargy, reduced appetite, dry noses, and poor milk or meat output.

6. What’s the best way to keep water clean?
Clean troughs weekly, use covers or shades, and prevent standing water.

7. Can poor water impact milk/meat production?
Yes. Contamination lowers intake and causes health issues.

8. Do animals need electrolytes?
Sometimes, during illness, transport, or heat. Ask a vet first.

9. How often should I check my water systems?
Daily. Watch for clogs, leaks, or signs that animals aren’t drinking.

10. Is water filtration worth the cost?
Absolutely. It protects your herd and boosts your return on investment.

Why Clean Drinking Water Matters for Cats



Cats don’t always drink as much as they should—and they’re picky about what they drink, too. That’s why water quality matters more than you might think. Clean, filtered water supports your cat’s kidneys, digestion, and overall health. This guide breaks down how to keep your cat safe and hydrated.


Why Cats Need Water

Water helps your cat:

  • Flush out toxins

  • Stay cool

  • Keep their kidneys working properly

  • Maintain a healthy coat and digestion

The problem? Cats have a naturally low thirst drive, especially if they eat mostly dry food. That makes clean, appealing water a must.


Signs of Dehydration in Cats

Look for:

  • Dry or sticky gums

  • Sunken eyes

  • Lethargy

  • Less appetite

  • Less peeing or darker pee

A quick skin test (pinch and release) can also help. If the skin doesn’t bounce back fast, your cat may be dehydrated.


What’s in Tap Water?

Your water might look fine, but here’s what could be hiding in it:

  • Chlorine and chloramine

  • Lead and copper (from old pipes)

  • PFAS (aka “forever chemicals”)

Even low levels of these can cause issues for sensitive cats. If your tap water smells or tastes off, it’s not ideal for pets.


Is Tap Water Safe for Cats?

Sometimes. But cats with kidney issues or sensitive stomachs may react to chemicals or metals in tap water. If your cat has digestive trouble, dry skin, or urinary problems, poor water quality could be a factor.


Filtered vs. Bottled vs. Tap Water

  • Tap water is easy but may contain additives.

  • Bottled water can have microplastics or added minerals.

  • Filtered water is usually the best everyday option.

A simple carbon filter can remove chlorine and odors. For deeper purification, a reverse osmosis (RO) system can take out heavy metals, fluoride, and more.


What Do Vets Recommend?

Most vets suggest filtered or purified water—especially for cats with urinary issues, diabetes, or kidney problems. If your cat’s on a special diet, clean water helps the treatment work even better.


Easy Water Filters for Cat Owners

  • Countertop carbon filters

  • Under-sink systems

  • Reverse osmosis for well water or older pipes

These systems also improve water for humans, making them a win-win.


How Much Water Should Cats Drink?

On average:
3.5 to 4.5 ounces per 5 pounds of body weight
So, a 10-pound cat should drink about a cup a day.

Wet food helps, but dry food-only cats need to drink more. Keep clean water available at all times.


How to Get Your Cat to Drink More

Try this:

  • Use a pet fountain (cats love running water)

  • Offer multiple bowls in quiet spots

  • Test different bowl shapes and sizes

  • Add a splash of tuna water or broth (no salt/onions)

Even picky cats can be encouraged to drink more with a few simple tricks.


Kittens and Senior Cats

  • Kittens dehydrate quickly, so frequent water access is key.

  • Senior cats may drink less or have medical conditions that increase their risk for dehydration.

Both age groups benefit from fresh, clean water and close monitoring.


Dangers of Contaminated Water

Outdoor bowls, puddles, or unfiltered water can carry:

  • Giardia

  • E. coli

  • Parasites

Clean your cat’s bowl daily and avoid leaving water outside unless it’s monitored.


Final Thoughts

Filtered water isn’t a luxury—it’s part of good cat care. It supports everything from kidney health to hydration habits and helps prevent illness.

If you’d drink filtered water yourself, your cat should too.


Resources


FAQs About Water for Cats

1. Why is water important for cats?
It helps with kidney health, digestion, and hydration—especially for cats that eat dry food.

2. Is tap water safe?
It depends. Filtered water is safer and reduces exposure to additives or metals.

3. Can cats drink distilled water?
Only occasionally. It lacks minerals and isn’t ideal for long-term use.

4. Are fountains good for cats?
Yes! They encourage drinking and keep water fresher.

5. What kind of bowl is best?
Stainless steel or ceramic—easy to clean and less likely to hold bacteria.

6. Can cats drink cold water?
Yes. Some prefer it, especially in warm weather.

7. How often should I change the water?
At least once a day, more often if it gets dirty.

8. Can cats go without water for a day?
They can, but it’s not safe. Dehydration sets in quickly.

9. Why is my cat drinking less?
It might be the food (wet vs. dry), the bowl, stress, or even illness.

10. Should I add anything to their water?
Usually, no. Use plain water unless your vet says otherwise.

Clean Drinking Water for Dogs: What Every Dog Owner Should Know



Did you know your dog’s water might be just as important as their food? Clean, filtered drinking water plays a major role in keeping your pup healthy, energetic, and hydrated—yet many owners overlook it. Whether you're using tap, bottled, or filtered water, here's what you need to know to give your dog the best.


Why Hydration Matters

Water helps regulate body temperature, support digestion, cushion joints, and flush out toxins. It also keeps your dog’s coat shiny and energy levels high. Without enough water, dogs can quickly become tired, constipated, or worse.


Signs Your Dog May Be Dehydrated

Watch for:

  • Dry gums

  • Sunken eyes

  • Lethargy

  • Dark urine

  • Heavy panting

In serious cases, dogs may vomit, lose balance, or appear confused.


What’s Really in Tap Water?

Most tap water is treated for people, not pets. It may contain:

  • Chlorine and chloramine (which can upset digestion)

  • Fluoride (linked to joint issues)

  • Heavy metals like lead and copper

  • PFAS (aka “forever chemicals”)

If you wouldn’t drink it, consider whether your dog should.


Filtered, Bottled, or Tap Water: What’s Best?

  • Tap Water: Convenient but quality varies. May contain additives or metals.

  • Bottled Water: Can be better, but often comes with microplastics or added minerals not ideal for dogs.

  • Filtered Water: Often the best choice. Removes chlorine, metals, and other contaminants without harming beneficial minerals.


Vet-Backed Advice

Many vets recommend giving dogs the same water you’d drink. Filtered or purified water is a safe bet—especially if your home has old pipes or you're on well water. Avoid long-term use of distilled water unless advised by your vet.


Water Filters for Dog Owners

  • Carbon block filters: Great for city water, removes chlorine and odors.

  • Reverse osmosis systems: Ideal for homes with well water or high TDS.

Filtering your own water is a cost-effective way to improve water quality at home.


How Much Water Does Your Dog Need?

A good rule of thumb:
1 ounce of water per pound of body weight, per day.
So a 50-lb dog needs about 50 ounces daily—more if they eat dry food, exercise often, or live in a warm climate.


Tips to Encourage Hydration

Some dogs don’t drink enough—try these tricks:

  • Use a pet fountain (dogs love running water)

  • Add a splash of low-sodium broth

  • Place water bowls in multiple rooms

  • Avoid plastic bowls (they trap bacteria)


Puppies and Senior Dogs

  • Puppies: Need more water to support growth.

  • Seniors: May drink less—watch for dehydration and adjust as needed.


Watch Out for Waterborne Illnesses

Contaminated water can lead to:

  • Giardia

  • Leptospirosis

  • E. coli

Prevent this by using filtered water, washing bowls daily, and bringing clean water when traveling.


Final Thoughts

Clean water is an easy way to support your dog’s health. Whether you install a home filter or buy purified water, your dog will benefit from fewer toxins, better hydration, and improved well-being.

When in doubt: If you wouldn’t drink it, don’t give it to your dog.


Resources


Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much water should a dog drink per day?
About 1 oz per pound of body weight.

2. Is tap water safe for dogs?
Sometimes. If you’re concerned, filtered water is safer.

3. Can dogs drink distilled water?
Occasionally is okay, but long-term use isn’t ideal.

4. Can I flavor my dog’s water?
Yes—try low-sodium broth. Avoid anything with sugar or artificial sweeteners.

5. Is cold water bad for dogs?
No, but very cold water after heavy exercise can cause bloating in some large breeds.

6. Can my dog drink coconut water?
Yes, in moderation. It’s hydrating but shouldn’t replace regular water.

7. What’s the best type of bowl?
Stainless steel or ceramic—easy to clean and safe.

8. What are signs of dehydration?
Dry gums, tiredness, dark urine, and loss of skin elasticity.

9. Can dogs have vitamin water?
Only if it’s made for pets. Human versions may contain harmful ingredients.

10. Is filtered water better for dogs?
Yes—filtered water removes harmful contaminants and helps support long-term health.

Why Filtered Water for Birds Is Essential for Their Health



Clean water isn’t optional—it’s vital. Just like food, water plays a huge role in your pet bird’s health, behavior, and lifespan. Whether you care for a parakeet, parrot, cockatiel, or finch, giving them safe, fresh water is one of the easiest ways to help them thrive.

Why Birds Need Clean Water

Birds drink multiple times a day, especially when it’s warm or they eat dry food. Because they don’t sweat like mammals, water helps regulate their temperature and aids digestion. Without clean water, they can quickly become dehydrated or sick.

What Happens If the Water Isn’t Safe?

Contaminated water can cause:

  • Bacterial infections (like Salmonella)

  • Mold exposure (like Aspergillosis)

  • Chemical toxicity from chlorine, fluoride, or metals in tap water

Even small amounts of these contaminants, which are safe for humans, can cause serious harm to birds due to their small size.

Tap, Bottled, or Filtered: What’s Best?

Here’s a breakdown of common options:

  • Tap Water: Convenient but may contain chlorine, lead, or pesticides
    Tip: Use a water filter to remove harmful chemicals.

  • Bottled Water: Some brands are OK, but watch for added minerals or flavors
    Tip: Choose spring water with no additives.

  • Filtered Water: Best overall. It removes chlorine, metals, and other toxins
    Tip: Use carbon or reverse osmosis filters for better results.

Benefits of Filtered Water for Birds

  • Removes chlorine, lead, and copper

  • Improves feather condition and energy

  • Reduces the risk of long-term illness

Birds that drink clean water are often more active, have shinier feathers, and show fewer signs of stress.

What Kind of Water Container Should You Use?

  • Glass bottles – Resist bacteria better than plastic

  • Stainless steel bowls – Easy to clean and long-lasting

  • Gravity dispensers – Great for a steady water supply

🛑 Avoid plastic—it can trap bacteria in small scratches.

Daily Water Care Tips

  • Change water at least once a day

  • Wash dishes with warm, soapy water

  • Use a bird-safe disinfectant weekly

  • Keep bowls in shaded, cool spots to avoid algae or mold growth

Should You Use a Water Filter?

Yes, especially if you rely on city tap water or have older pipes. A simple carbon filter works well for most homes. If your water has a high metal content, reverse osmosis may be a better option, but always consult your avian veterinarian first.

Can You Use Rainwater?

Only if it’s filtered first. Rainwater can carry bacteria, roof debris, and pollution. Use a ceramic drip filter if you want to try this option.

Vet-Approved Advice

Most avian vets recommend filtered or purified water. Distilled water is okay occasionally, but it lacks the minerals birds need in the long term. If you're unsure, filtered is the safest option for everyday use.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I give filtered water to birds?
Yes! It’s often better than untreated tap water and removes toxins birds shouldn’t ingest.

2. Is tap water safe for birds?
Depends on your area. If you're unsure, filter it first.

3. Can birds drink distilled water?
Occasionally, yes—but it’s not ideal for daily use due to missing minerals.

4. How much water do birds need per day?
Most birds drink 2x as much water as the dry food they eat.

5. What’s sugar water?
It’s for hummingbirds only: 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water—no honey or sweeteners.

6. How do I keep bird water clean?
Daily rinsing and weekly scrubbing with a bird-safe cleaner or vinegar.

7. Why is clean water important?
It helps with digestion, temperature control, and prevents illness.


Final Thought

If you wouldn’t drink it, don’t give it to your bird. Filtered water is an easy, affordable step toward keeping your bird happy and healthy.

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

How to Tell if Odors From Well Water Are Coming from Well or Inside the House


Unpleasant water odorWater containing hydrogen sulfide gas (“H2S”) has a distinctive “rotten egg” odor, which may be especially noticeable when running hot water.

Such water can discolor coffee, tea, and other beverages and alter the appearance and taste of cooked foods. Hydrogen sulfide (“H2S”) gas is a nuisance that is not usually a health risk at concentrations typically found in household water.

Hydrogen sulfide can be toxic. Usually, the gas can be detected long before it reaches harmful concentrations. H2S is flammable and poisonous. While such concentrations are not typical, if gases are released in a confined area, they could cause nausea, illness, and in extreme cases, death.

H2S dissolved in water can corrode plumbing metals, such as iron, steel, copper, and brass, and exposed metal parts in washing machines and other water-using appliances.

The corrosion of iron and steel from hydrogen sulfide forms ferrous sulfide or “black water,” which can darken silverware and discolor copper and brass utensils. Hydrogen sulfide can also interfere with the effectiveness of water softeners and filter systems.

Sources of Hydrogen Sulfide

Iron bacteria and sulfur bacteria present in groundwater use iron and sulfur as an energy source and chemically change sulfates to produce H2S gas. These bacteria use the sulfur available from decaying plants, rocks, or soil and often thrive in an iron-rich environment.

The harmless, non-toxic bacteria usually exist in oxygen-deficient environments, such as deep wells and plumbing systems. The bacteria do not usually cause health problems but contribute to bad tastes and odors at low levels.

The First Step is To Check For Odors in Cold & Hot Water

Diagram of a Typical Water Heater
Diagram of a Typical Water Heater

Run a hose bib or tap as close to the well as possible and fill a 5- gallon bucket or other container and notice if there are odors. If you smell a “rotten-egg” odor, this is hydrogen sulfide gas.

If the water smells like oil or asphalt, this can be from manganese. Also, if the water smells like cucumber or sewage, this is usually a result of iron and sulfur bacteria.

aluminum_anode_rod
Aluminum Anode Rod

Run the water hot water from each tap and notice an odor in hot water, not in the cold water. This indicates a problem with the water heater. Iron and sulfur bacteria can interact with the anode rod in water heaters, resulting in hydrogen sulfide gas only in hot water.

Changing the anode rod to an aluminum-zinc rod can often solve this problem.

It is recommended that you drain your water heater at least once per year. This will flush out the sediment that may accumulate in the bottom and give you an idea of the sediment type and color, if any, are present.

To learn more about odors and what may be causing them, visit our Odors page or read our guide on “How To Treat Sulfur Odors In Well Water.”

Sulfur odor in pipes after installing a new treatment system?

If possible, we recommend adding a cup of bleach into the pipes after the new softener or whole house filter and flush the water heater and household cold water pipes with some bleach to eliminate the odor.

One thing that can happen with odors is that odors can still develop in the pipes because of bio-films while there is no odor leaving the new treatment system.  This can be worse in sections of the plumbing that are not used much.

Introducing a small amount of chlorine (laundry bleach is fine) and letting the water sit for a couple of hours helps sanitize the pipes and prevents the odors from developing in the pipes if that was a problem.

Water Heater Odor Only?

If the odor is primarily in hot water, the water heater needs to be sanitized. Turn off water pressure to the water heater and Add 1 cup of chlorine bleach to the water heater and turn the water back on.

If you have a prefilter housing, you can add the bleach there. If not, remove the inlet flex pipe and drain some water out of the water heater. Run hot water in the home for a minute to get chlorine bleach mixed into hot water and then turn off the water. Let the water heater sit for 2 hours and then run the hot water until clear. Note this may have to be repeated for severely fouled water heaters.

If the odor returns to the water heater, you may need to remove or replace the anode rod.

(Click here to learn more about water odor.)

Sulfur Odors on Your Second Level or Upstairs Floors Only?

In some cases, it is worse on upper floor levels because the gas can rise and appear out of fixtures on the upper floors.

The first step in eliminating this is to ‘shock chlorinate’ the pipes. This is done by adding enough bleach to reach a 100 to 200 ppm chlorine residual and then allowing the chlorinated water to sit in the pipes for
6 to 8 hours or overnight.

If the odor or gasses go away but come back in a few weeks, the shock chlorination process is repeated.

There are various ways to introduce chlorine bleach into pipes, but having a filter housing inline can make it easy.

With a spindown filter, you can easily turn off the water to house, unscrew the filter and add chlorine bleach or peroxide.

  1. kill sulfur odors in pipes
    Heat and Chemical Resistant Spindown Filter Makes it Easy to Add Bleach or Peroxide to Kill Your Odors in Pipes.

    Turn the water back on and flush your pipes until you smell bleach or see bubbles from the peroxide.

  2. Let it sit in pipes for several hours.
  3. Turn the water back on and flush the pipes.
  4. No more odors!

 

Why Does My Water Smell Like Sewage?

If your cold well water smells like sewage, it can be the result of several causes:

  1. Hydrogen sulfide from iron, sulfur or other types of bacteria naturally occurring in your well water
  2. Contaminated pipes with layers of bio-film caused by various types of iron,  sulfur, or other types of bacteria.
  3. Septic tank contamination

First, test your water for coliform bacteria using a lab kit or a do-it-yourself-at-home bacteria test kit.

Shock chlorinate and sanitize your well and piping, and retest if the coliform test was positive.

Install a peroxide injection or chlorine injection system, or aeration with disinfection to eliminate bacteria.

If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to e-mail us at support@cleanwaterstore.com, leave us a message on Facebook, or use our online contact form for prompt, personalized assistance from our trained professionals.

Monday, April 12, 2021

5 Most Common Mistakes Selecting Well Water Treatment Systems

Well Water Treatment Systems

Well Water TreatmentOver the last 30 years, we have worked on thousands of well water treatment installations or Well Water Treatment Systems.

Unfortunately, by the time many of our customers work with us, they are installing their 2nd or 3rd well water treatment system after having problems with the water filtration system that they had before.

We realized after some time that there are five common mistakes a lot of homeowners make when choosing well water treatment.

You can easily avoid these problems with a little help and very little time and effort.

The Top 5 Mistakes Include:

1. Failing to analyze the well water chemistry correctly

2. Not having a fundamental understanding of how the well water system works

3. Not knowing the well pump and well flow rate in gallons or liters per minute

4. Not checking the water pressure or having a broken pressure gauge

5. Choosing the wrong water treatment system for the water problem

Water Taken For Granted

Many of us grew up in an urban area with safe-treated city water and later relocated to the countryside. We may never have considered the origin or quality of water. Water was taken for granted to be abundant and safe.

After purchasing a home in the country on a private well, many of our customers have encountered unpalatable or dangerous water for the first time. The well water might be rusty, full of sediment, possess a bad odor, bad smell, or perhaps include harmful bacteria that induce sickness.

Fortunately, there are many different water treatment systems in the marketplace to fix these issues. Unfortunately, quite a few water treatment vendors, retail outlets, or big box stores often have only a few systems supposed to match all situations, yielding poor results and frequent repairs and maintenance.

One size fits all, and “set it and forget it” is all too common in sales claims.  Finding the best well water filtration system depends on a good understanding of your well water.

5 Most Common Mistakes Selecting Well Water Treatment Systems Info graphics

1. Water Chemistry is Vital in Choosing the Best Well Water Treatment System for The Job

Easy well water kit proAlmost all water treatment systems have certain ranges or conditions in which they perform. One example is well waters that are naturally acidic, and at the same time, have iron present. A lot of iron filtration systems cannot take away iron if the water is acidic, and so to begin, the water has to be treated to counteract the acidity in the water.

Knowing which parameters to analyze is important. When the well is located near gasoline stations, industrial sites, or close to an agricultural area where many chemical substances are being used, the water should be analyzed annually for various chemical contaminants to make sure the water remains safe secure.

Suppose septic tanks or livestock in the region, such as cattle or horses, a bacteria test is recommended. For many aesthetic water quality problems, including bad tastes, odors, or perhaps staining, general mineral testing is usually recommended.

This may include iron, manganese, total dissolved solids, pH, calcium hardness, alkalinity, and turbidity. Extra analysis can consist of arsenic, nitrate, sulfate, chloride, sodium, and metals such as lead.

A good water analysis before choosing a system is vital.  Without first knowing exactly what is present in the water choosing a tailored approach is not advised.

2. Understanding How Well Water Pumping Systems Work

Most wells pump water from the earth automatically by using a submersible pump.  If the well is shallow, they may use a jet pump located on top of the ground level and draws water from the well to create water pressure for the household.

Some well water treatment systems have a large holding tank to hold the actual water before being pumped again to the household. Many other well water filtration systems are gravity fed and employ gravity to produce water pressure for the dwelling.

Understanding the basics of how the well water system performs is essential when selecting a water treatment system. The treatment method’s style could adversely affect the water pressure and the flow rate within the home.

For example, when the well uses a pressure tank, a treatment system must be set up after the pressure tank, not before, to avoid causing damage to the well pump.

 

Well Water Treatment

3. How Well Pump Flow Rate Affects Water Treatment Systems

Water wells and well pumps come in different sizes and pump water at different rates.  It’s easy to test a well pump to determine the actual flow rate delivered from the pump.

Knowing the flow rate will allow the appropriate size water treatment system to be paired with its preferred flow rate. Nearly all well water filtration systems are self-cleaning and need to have a specific minimum flow rate.

The common problem is to use a water treatment system that will require ten gals. Per minute, but the existing well pump can only produce 7 gallons a minute. After several weeks, the water treatment system fails to backwash properly and becomes fouled.

The water filter media can seize and solidify, rendering the entire water system impossible to use.  Sizing a plan so that the flow rates are met is infinitely important to ensure enough force to move the well water through the media bed to lift the media and allow full cleaning.

Oversized water systems will cause loss of pressure, while an undersized system can see media be pushed into plumbing downstream of the filter.

(Click here to learn more about Choosing Home Water Filters & Other Water Treatment Systems.)

4. Water Pressure a Major Factor in Choosing Best Well Water Treatment System

Well water pressure is important for choosing the best well water filtration systemWater pressure also has a crucial role in selecting a water treatment system. Virtually all water treatment systems will decrease the water pressure as the water flows through the equipment.

It is important to know the water pressure from the well pump and pressure system before selecting a well water filtration system to end up with decent water pressure inside the bathroom, and other fixtures home appliances.

Many good pump systems are generally fine-tuned to operate better if the pressure is not high enough, to begin with.

5. Deciding on the Best Well Water Treatment System for the Job

While some well water treatment systems get rid of several pollutants, no one treatment system can work for every application or water contaminant.

When choosing the best water filtration system for well water, it is important to know the capability of the water treatment methods that are being considered, what impurities they extract, precisely what several flow rates they will process, and what water pressures they will operate within.