Private well answer guide

UV Light for Well Water Coliform: When It Helps

UV can help control bacteria at the point of treatment, but it should not be used to ignore a damaged well, recurring coliform source, sediment, or poor maintenance.

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Tests to run

  • Total coliform
  • E. coli
  • Turbidity
  • Iron
  • Hardness

Next steps

  • Fix obvious well defects and retest before relying on permanent disinfection.
  • Pretreat sediment, iron, manganese, and hardness if they block UV effectiveness.
  • Replace UV lamps and clean sleeves on schedule.
  • Continue periodic bacteria testing to verify the system is working.

FAQ

Does UV remove bacteria from water?

UV inactivates many microbes when properly sized and maintained, but it does not physically remove contaminants.

Does UV remove nitrate or arsenic?

No. UV does not remove dissolved chemicals such as nitrate, arsenic, lead, or PFAS.

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Educational guidance only. Always confirm important decisions with a certified laboratory, local health department, qualified water treatment professional, or clinician.