Iron bacteria are naturally occurring microorganisms that can impact water systems within homes. These bacteria derive their energy by converting dissolved iron, or sometimes manganese, from water into an insoluble, rust-like form. This process can lead to various issues for both water quality and household infrastructure.
What Exactly Is Iron Bacteria?
Iron bacteria are a diverse group of microorganisms found widely in soil, surface water, and shallow groundwater. They gain energy by oxidizing dissolved iron, causing it to precipitate out of the water.
These bacteria thrive in environments where iron is abundant, such as groundwater sources and private wells. They are also present where de-oxygenated water containing iron meets oxygenated conditions. This interaction results in the formation of a reddish-brown, gelatinous slime or fluffy deposits.
This slimy material, often called biofilm, adheres to surfaces within water systems. Many types of iron bacteria contribute to these characteristic buildups.
Potential Harms of Iron Bacteria
Iron bacteria are generally not considered a direct health threat to humans or animals. Their presence can indirectly affect water quality, making it less appealing for consumption.
These bacteria can produce unpleasant tastes and odors in water, often described as swampy, oily, metallic, or resembling rotten vegetables or sewage. They can also create conditions that promote the growth of other organisms.
The most significant problems caused by iron bacteria relate to property and infrastructure damage. Their growth leads to the formation of slimy deposits that accumulate within water systems. This buildup can severely reduce water flow and eventually clog pipes, well screens, pumps, and irrigation systems.
Iron bacteria also cause aesthetic issues, such as reddish-brown or orange staining on plumbing fixtures, laundry, and other surfaces. Furthermore, these bacteria can indirectly contribute to corrosion of plumbing components.
Identifying and Managing Iron Bacteria
Several signs can indicate the presence of iron bacteria in your water system. Visually, you might observe slimy, reddish-brown, orange, or yellow deposits inside toilet tanks, on faucet screens, or in pipes. An oily sheen on the water surface, which breaks apart when disturbed unlike a petroleum sheen, is another common indicator.
Sensory cues include a metallic taste in the water or a musty, swampy, or rotten vegetable odor, which may be more noticeable after water has sat for some time. Reduced water pressure or recurrent clogging of filters and appliances can also suggest bacterial growth.
While visual and sensory signs are strong indicators, professional water testing is the most reliable method to confirm the presence of iron bacteria. Laboratories can analyze water samples to identify the bacteria and assess the extent of the problem.
Managing iron bacteria often involves a combination of approaches. Physical removal, such as flushing wells and scrubbing well casings and pumping equipment, is frequently the initial step for heavily infected systems. This helps to dislodge the accumulated slime and deposits.
Chemical treatments, particularly shock chlorination, are commonly used to kill the bacteria and break down their biofilm. This involves introducing a strong chlorine solution into the well and plumbing, followed by thorough flushing. Other chemical options, such as acids or hydrogen peroxide, may also be employed, sometimes by professionals.
Filtration systems designed to remove iron and manganese can help manage the problem by reducing the bacteria’s food source and filtering out oxidized deposits. Prevention is also important, including proper well construction to prevent surface water entry, regular maintenance, and disinfecting the well and plumbing after repairs.