Coliform bacteria are part of a broad group of bacteria found in soil, water and vegetation. It can also be found in the intestines of humans and other warm-blooded animals. It can enter your well through groundwater, surface water run-off, cracked or broken well parts, poor construction, and leaking septic tanks. In your well water, coliform can mean there are disease-causing organisms in it. Also, E. coli is a sign of fecal matter and can cause health problems.
Coliform bacteria and your health.
If your well water test positive for total coliform (E. coli), you may have diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches or other symptoms. Infants, young children and people with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk.
Coliform bacteria and your well water.
Testing for coliform is the most common way to know if your drinking water is contaminated and unsafe to drink. If your water tests positive for E. coli, you should switch to bottled water or another source of safe drinking water and seek treatment options. You should test for coliform bacteria at least once a year.
If your water tests positive for E. Coli IT IS NOT SAFE for drinking, food preparation or brushing your teeth.
But IT iS SAFE for other domestic uses and irrigating gardens.
Before using water that has tested positive for E.coli you MUST BOIL it first. Or you can use bottled water (or other safe drinking water source).
Supervise children to help them avoid swallowing water while bathing, or brushing teeth, etc.
Inspect your well head and well parts for repairs and contact Pumpro, your local drinking water specialist for treatment advice.