INTERNAL DISTRIBUTION DISINFECTION

A build-up of sulfate reducing bacteria, iron bacteria, and organic bio-films in the plumbing of a home can cause unpleasant tastes and odors. While these growths are coming from the well and a complete well disinfection or full treatment system may be necessary, in some cases the problem can be lessened by disinfecting the internal house plumbing. The procedure for chlorination of internal plumbing follows.  

In order to perform this procedure, you must have a cartridge style or Vu-flow style filter in place. You will need a small amount of liquid bleach (standard household bleach, such as Clorox, unscented)
 
Perform this procedure just before going to bed or before going away for the weekend.

1.  If the cartridge precedes a water softener or filter, put the softener or filter on bypass.

2.  Turn the water off before and after the cartridge or Vu-flow using the ball valves installed.

3.   Depressurize by pressing the red button on the top of the cartridge housing until no more water comes out, or if a Vu-flow, by turning the knob on the bottom, with a bucket below. Remove the existing cartridge filter (if any), and pour out the water.

4.  Fill the cartridge housing or Vu-flow sump with liquid bleach.  Be careful not to spill onto hands or face.

5.  Replace the housing and hand tighten.

6.  Turn the water back on, before and after the cartridge or Vu-flow, check for leaks.

7.  Go to the faucets where the odor is a problem and run water until you can smell bleach. Turn off faucet and leave chlorinated water in plumbing. If you are treating several locations in the house, or if hot water is a major problem, you may have to refill the cartridge a few times to get adequate bleach to all locations.

8.  MARK OR COVER ALL CHLORINATED FAUCETS TO BE SURE NO ONE USES THE CHLORINATED WATER.

9.  After the overnight or weekend waiting period, flush water out of the faucet until the chlorine smell is gone.

10.  Put water treatment equipment back on line, replace cartridge if any.

NOTE:  For areas with strong bio-film, it may be necessary to rechlorinate several times to completely kill the growth.If the odor starts to return later, the sooner you rechlorinate, the better. If you are having to do this procedure on a frequent basis, treatment equipment may be necessary.