Iron bacteria are small living organisms that naturally occur in soil, surface, and groundwater. These nuisance bacteria combine iron or manganese with oxygen to form deposits of “rust”, bacterial cells, and slimy materials that stick to well casings, pumps, pipes, plumbing fixtures, and water appliances often damaging them. These bacteria can range in color from orange to brown, or even red in color.
Sometimes it floats in the water like orange algae and sometimes you may notice an orange slime that coats the inside of the toilet tank that can be wiped off with a finger. You may also notice an oily sheen on the water surface. Iron bacteria often produce unpleasant tastes and odors commonly reported as: “swampy”, “oily”, “cucumber”, “sewage”, “rotten vegetation”, or “musty”. The taste or odor may be more noticeable if the water is stagnant for some time. Iron bacteria does not produce hydrogen sulfide (the “rotten egg” smell) but can create an environment where sulfur bacteria can grow and produce hydrogen sulfide.
Although iron bacteria can affect how water tastes and smells, there are no associated health risks. However, iron bacteria can clog filters and screens reducing well yield and the effectiveness of some water treatment devices. If you suspect contamination or experience illness, stop drinking and cooking with the water immediately, and do not resume use until testing has proven it to be safe to use. Always seek the advice of your medical doctor if you have any health concerns.
If you believe you have iron bacteria in your well water, you should have it tested. You can use ourĀ interactive mapĀ to find certified laboratories near you that can test your well water.
Download ourĀ wellcareĀ®Ā Information Sheet onĀ Iron Bacteria & Well WaterĀ for additional tips.