Iron bacteria are common microorganisms found in various water sources, including wells, springs, and reservoirs. This article clarifies common concerns about these bacteria, focusing on their effects on human health and water quality. Understanding their nature and management is important for homeowners and water users.
The Nature of Iron Bacteria
Iron bacteria are microorganisms that use dissolved iron or manganese as an energy source. They combine iron and oxygen, forming deposits of “rust,” bacterial cells, and a slimy material. This process creates an insoluble reddish-brown gelatinous slime. These bacteria are frequently found in groundwater, especially in areas with high iron content, and can be introduced into water systems during drilling or maintenance.
These bacteria thrive in environments with dissolved iron and oxygen, such as wells, plumbing systems, and low water flow areas. Their presence is indicated by visual and sensory signs. Water may exhibit yellow, orange, red, or brown discoloration, often with clumpy or slimy deposits. It might also have unpleasant odors, described as swampy, oily, or musty, which become more noticeable after water has been stagnant.
Health Implications
Iron bacteria are not harmful to human health and do not directly cause illness. Unlike pathogenic bacteria, which cause disease, iron bacteria are primarily nuisance organisms. While not a direct health threat, their presence can indirectly affect water quality, potentially creating conditions for other harmful bacteria to grow.
These bacteria contribute to biofilm formation, a slimy layer adhering to surfaces inside pipes, water heaters, and other plumbing fixtures. This biofilm can harbor other microorganisms, making them harder to eliminate from the water system. The accumulation of iron bacteria also leads to infrastructure problems like clogged pipes, reduced water flow, and premature corrosion of well components. Thus, primary concerns are aesthetic issues, such as water discoloration and unpleasant odors, and infrastructural problems.
Identifying Iron Bacteria in Water
Identifying iron bacteria in a water system often begins with observable signs. A common indicator is reddish-brown or orange staining on plumbing fixtures like sinks, toilets, and laundry. This staining can also appear on dishes and other surfaces contacting the affected water.
Another sign is slimy deposits inside toilet tanks, pipes, or filters. This sticky, often rust-colored sludge can cling to surfaces or appear as stringy clumps in the water.
Beyond visual cues, distinct odors can suggest iron bacteria. Water might smell metallic, swampy, or musty, especially after sitting. A simple test for an oily sheen involves disturbing it with a stick; if the sheen breaks apart and does not reform, it is likely iron bacteria, not petroleum. If these signs are consistent, professional water testing can confirm the diagnosis and rule out other contaminants.
Addressing Iron Bacteria
Managing iron bacteria in a water system involves strategies for removal and prevention. Shock chlorination is a common approach for wells, introducing a strong chlorine solution to disinfect the well and plumbing. This process breaks up bacterial masses and sterilizes affected areas. After chlorination, thoroughly flushing the plumbing system removes dislodged bacteria and chlorine residue.
Physical cleaning of affected fixtures, such as scrubbing toilet tanks and pipes, helps remove accumulated slime and deposits. For persistent issues, a licensed well contractor might physically remove and clean pumping equipment and scrub the well casing. Ongoing maintenance is important because iron bacteria can regrow. This may include regular well cleaning, periodic shock chlorination, and using filtration systems designed to address iron and bacterial issues. Maintaining well integrity, like ensuring a tightly sealed well cap, also helps prevent their reintroduction.