It can be disconcerting to see particles floating in your water. These pieces of debris might be sediment or mineral deposits, and they are usually not harmful. Luckily, this problem can be fixed quickly by a water well contractor. Below are some of the most common types of particles and what they could mean for your water system.

What Well Water Particles Mean

There are several different types of particles that can make their way into well water. If you can get a close look at the particles, you might be able to determine what they are.

One common type of particle is small black specks that look like coffee grounds. This sediment is likely coming from your water filter, as it uses carbon to remove contaminants from your water. You also might see white or tan particles. These come from naturally-occurring mineral deposits like calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate. This water is still safe to drink, but it can be unpleasant and can clog up your sinks or shower drains.

You might also notice brown or orange particles. This could mean that sand and dirt particles have entered your well through the soil. Your pipes might also be rusting if you see hard, irregularly shaped particles. If you see particles the size of fish eggs, it could mean your water softener is broken.

How to Mitigate the Issue

To be sure of what type of sediment you’re dealing with, you can have a water well contractor test your water. They’ll look at the pH, hardness, iron, and manganese, along with some other pipe measurements. Unless your home is new, a contractor will test for corrosion in your pipes, which can lead to sediment in your water. 

If you have large particles that look like coffee grounds, your water well contractor will inspect your water filter. If they suspect sand or dirt could be in your pipes, they’ll inspect them. For fish egg-shaped particles, they’ll look at your water filter. Water well contractors may also look at your well water flow rate, check your toilet tank, and check the water heater. If necessary, the contractor will repair or replace the necessary parts of your system, depending on the type of particle they find.

They might also install a filter that prevents sediment from entering the water you drink. Mesh screen filters are used for larger sediment, while micron cartridge filters are necessary if the particles are small. Consult with a water well contractor to find the best option for your home.

If you are having issues with your well water, turn to Oehler Pump & Well Service. They’ve been serving the Charlotte, NC, area since 1970, and their water well contractors have over 40 years of combined experience. They offer a wide variety of brands, including Goulds ® and Myers ®, and they can help you get rid of the sediment in your well water. Visit their website or call (704) 875-2209 to schedule an appointment today.