How to Use Pool Chlorine in a Water Well

Wells must be disenfected to ensure that the water is safe to use.

Pool chlorine is used to kill bacteria and other harmful organisms. But its use is not restricted to just swimming pools. It may also be used in wells to achieve the same purpose. Wells, like other bodies of water, are susceptible to algae and bacteria growth. They must be maintained and occasionally disinfected to ensure that the water remains clean. Mix granular pool chlorine and pool chlorine tablets to achieve the best results.

Things You'll Need

• Eye protection
• Gloves
• Pool chlorine
• Hose
• 15-gallon bucket

Instructions

1. Put on protective gloves and safety glasses before handling the chlorine.

2. Turn off the power to the well pump. This is most often done inside the pump house. Most pumps have a switch. Remove the well cap. This may require wrenches or similar tools depending on your pump. Consult the pump documentation if you have trouble.

3. Fill the bucket with approximately 10 gallons of water from the hose.

4. Add the appropriate amount of pool chlorine to the bucket of water. The necessary amount of chlorine is calculated by finding the total amount of water in the well. For example, if the well is 100 feet deep and the water level is 50 feet from the top of the well, the well contains 50 feet of water. Add 1 tbsp. of pool chlorine for 10 feet of water. Add 3 tbsp. for 20 feet and increase the amount by approximately 3 tbsp. for every 20 feet of water thereafter. Use a mix of half granular pool chlorine and half pool chlorine tablets to achieve maximum effect.

5. Pour the mixture into the well through the well cap.

6. Turn on the well pump. Insert the hose into the well cap and turn on the hose. This pushes the chlorine through the system. Turn on one of the faucets in the house. Run the hose and pump for 30 minutes or until you smell chlorine coming from the faucet.

7. Turn on each faucet and flush each toilet until you smell chlorine coming from the fixture. Shut off the pump and the hose.

8. Allow the chlorine to sit in the system overnight or for a minimum of 12 hours.

9. Place the hose in a driveway or other area away from vegetation. Turn on the water to the hose until you no longer smell chlorine in the water.

10. Call the local health department or certified private water testing company. Arrange for them to sample the well water to certify it as ready for use.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use the water for cooking, drinking or bathing during the chlorine purification process. Do not use the water until it has been tested and certified by a qualified professional. Do not use this technique in systems that use septic tanks -- it may damage the system.

References

• Howard County Health Department: Well and Water Supply System Disinfection
• Clean Water Store: How to Shock Chlorinate & Sanitize Wells