What is Bleaching a Drilled Well?
Bleaching a drilled well is a process of disinfecting a well to remove bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. This process is essential for water wells, especially in Indonesia, where groundwater is the primary source of drinking water.
Why Do You Need to Bleach a Drilled Well?
Even though groundwater is generally considered safe, it can still be contaminated with harmful microorganisms that can cause diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever. Bleaching a drilled well is an effective way to kill these microorganisms and ensure that the water is safe to drink.
When Should You Bleach a Drilled Well?
You should bleach a drilled well if:
- You notice a change in water quality, such as color, taste, or odor.
- You have experienced gastrointestinal illnesses after consuming well water.
- Your well has been flooded or contaminated by surface water.
How to Bleach a Drilled Well?
Here are the steps to bleach a drilled well:
- Turn off the pump and drain all the water from the well.
- Add chlorine bleach to the well. The amount of bleach depends on the depth and diameter of the well. As a general rule, you should add one gallon of bleach for every 100 feet of well depth.
- Use a long stick to stir the bleach into the water.
- Let the bleach solution sit in the well for at least 24 hours.
- Flush the well by turning on the pump and letting the water run until you no longer smell bleach.
Precautions When Bleaching a Drilled Well
When bleaching a drilled well, it is essential to take the following precautions:
- Wear protective clothing, including gloves and goggles, when handling chlorine bleach.
- Do not drink or use the water until the bleach odor is gone.
- Do not allow the bleach solution to enter surface water or septic systems.
Conclusion
Bleaching a drilled well is an effective way to ensure that your well water is safe to drink. By following the steps and precautions outlined in this article, you can disinfect your well and protect your family from harmful microorganisms.