What Is Mobile Shock Chlorination?
Shock chlorination is a process designed to inactivate harmful bacteria within the well and. distribution system. If the bacteria have been introduced to the well directly or by means of poor siting or well design, shock chlorination should effectively reduce the bacteria levels. This shock chlorination procedure is designed for disinfecting groundwater wells that have been tested positive for E. coli or fecal coliform.
When should I shock chlorinate my well?
- Immediately after installing a new well.
- Whenever repair work is done on your well, pump or distribution system.
- Following contamination by flood water or any change in water clarity, colour or taste.
- When lab tests show coliform bacteria in your well water.
- Every year, to prevent biofouling
Coliform bacteria
The presence of total coliform bacteria may indicate your well is contaminated. It is important to test your well water for this bacteria twice a year. Pick up water sample bottles and instructions from your local Community Health Centre (Public Health Unit). The instructions explain how to properly collect the sample and transport it back to the Health Unit. For a list of local Health Units visit: myhealth.alberta.ca
Biofouling
If you notice a build-up of slime inside your toilet tank, staining of fixtures and laundry, bad taste and a rotten-egg smell, or if your well is producing less water, you may have a condition called biofouling. Although harmless to humans, iron or sulphate reducing bacteria can build up in your well causing biofouling that may lead to plugging or permanent damage to well equipment.