You Have Iron in Your Water. Now What?

If you get your water from a rural source such as a privately-owned well or small water co-op, you will probably at some point realize that you have iron in your water. Iron in water is a prevalent condition so it might not be a cause for concern. However, in some situations, it could cause severe problems and needs to be removed or minimized. Upon discovering that you have iron in your water, it is usually a good idea to create a game plan to help you proceed. Iron removal from water can be a little complicated since so many different factors can all contribute to the overall quality of your water.

Most people probably do not realize that there are at least five different types of iron that can be in drinking water and that the method for removing each one is different. Other potentially harmful water problems can also be present and make the situation even more difficult. Various forms of bacteria and algae can live in the water, and they can require entirely different eradication methods than iron removal from water.

When you realize you have problems with your water supply, the first step is probably to get as much information together as possible. You can purchase various home testing kits that will give you a pretty good idea of the mineral content, bacteria count and chemical makeup of your water. If possible, also try to determine the depth of your well. Once you arm yourself with this knowledge, it is ordinarily advisable to seek out a specialist to assist with iron removal from water. In many states, the right place to start is with the county extension agent. These experts typically have the advantage of vast experience with water in your area and readily-available resources to help you get an overall picture of the steps to take to improve your overall water quality.