When you depend upon a well as your primary source of water, there are a few key steps you need to take for proper water well maintenance. One of these is shock chlorination, which is a highly effective method of sanitization. If you're new to the world of water wells, follow the guide below for a closer look at the process and how it helps.

A Guide to Shock Chlorination in Water Wells

What Is Shock Chlorination?

Shock chlorination is an essential water well maintenance service that comes recommended in a variety of scenarios, and the process itself is fairly straightforward. With the help of chlorine or household liquid bleach, shock chlorination effectively treats bacterial contamination in wells and other home water systems. The product used is the same unscented bleach you can find in your average corner store or supermarket, which should contain at least five percent sodium hypochlorite.

Why Is It So Important?

Water intended for human use and consumption needs to be as free of harmful bacteria as possible, so there are many instances in which shock chlorination is mandatory. You'll want to speak with your well drilling contractor about these and any related maintenance concerns as soon as your well has been installed or after putting a previously unused well back to work. Chlorination is also a must in the event of flooding in the area, signs of nearby contamination, and any time bacteria appears on water tests.

There are many different types of bacteria that can contaminate wells, with the most common being sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) and iron-related bacteria (IRB). These are known to cause issues within the well, including reduced well yield, foul odors, interior corrosion, and even the staining of laundry and plumbing fixtures. E. coli is among the contaminants that are harmful to humans, so taking precautionary measures like shock chlorination is a must for reliable water well maintenance.

Water well maintenance should be handled by experienced professionals, which is precisely what you'll get when you team up with Bishop Well & Pump Service, Inc. of Tifton, GA. These water well drilling experts have been providing expert installation and maintenance services to residential and commercial clients throughout Tift County for over 70 years, and they have all the tools necessary to keep your drinking water clean all year long. Visit their website for more information, and call them at (229) 382-6117 to schedule an estimate today.