It’s recommended to wait 24 to 48 hours before drinking water following the bleaching of a well. Testing the water to ensure chlorine levels are within a safe range is essential before consumption.
What Does Bleaching A Well Do?
Bleaching a well ultimately involves putting a solution of chlorine bleach into the water in order to kill germs. Chlorine is a strong disinfectant with the ability to eliminate dangerous viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms in water.
The usual household chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is commonly used for this task. This chlorine is diluted to the correct proportion depending on the overall size of the well.
When To Bleach A Well
Typically, bleaching a well will be suggested during the following times or events:
- Following plumbing, pump repair, or replacement.
- In the opening/drilling of a new well.
- After contamination of the well.
- Whenever the well water looks cloudy or smells foul.
What Is The Waiting Period To Drink Water After Bleaching A Well?
Individuals need to observe the proper waiting time to ensure the well water is safe to consume. While a specific waiting time may be different with each situation, there are a few guidelines outlined below that need to be considered.
Minimum Waiting Time
The shortest amount of time needed to wait before flushing the water is 12 hours. However, the suggested waiting period is at least 24 hours. This timeline allows for complete disinfection.
Chlorine Dispersal Waiting Period
After you have added bleach to the well, you should leave the water standing and circulating for at least 12 hours. This is the minimum amount of time that the chlorine can disinfect the water.
The chlorine takes time to spread to each and every corner of both the well and plumbing system. This minimum waiting time is essential to follow.
Safe Chlorine Concentration
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends a level of chlorine contained in drinking water should be within the range of 0.2-2.0 milligrams per liter (mg/L).
Whenever the chlorine levels exceeds this range, you need to wait longer before consuming it. Chlorine levels can be measured with either a drinking water testing kit or pool test kit, which can be found in hardware stores or online.
Flush The Water
When advised, run the water through all faucets in your house to make sure the smell of chlorine is completely gone. This assists in eliminating excess chlorine in your system, making the water safe to consume.
Test The Water Prior To Consumption
Always test the chlorine levels in your water before drinking it. Too much chlorine can cause issues withing your digestive tract, skin, and eyes.
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