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Private Water Supplies
Who should read this?
This page is designed for owners or occupiers of all single properties who have a private water supply.
Why should I improve my water supply?
Good quality water is very important for every day life. It is a requirement that every house has a good supply of clean, fresh water of high quality.
What are the common causes of a poor water supply?
There are two common ways in which the water supply will fail the current recommended guidelines. These are:
- Bacteriological failure
- Chemical failure
Bacteriological Failure
Private water supplies are frequently polluted with bacteria called "coliforms". These bacteria foul the water supply when it becomes contaminated with sewage or animal and bird excrement. Medical evidence has shown that these bacteria in water can pose a health risk. Through regular drinking of the water you may develop resistance or immunity to the bacteria, but babies, the young, the elderly and visitors to your premises may not be so resistant. Your drinking water may make them develop gastrointenstinal illness.
What can be done to stop bacterial contamination?
To prevent bacteria getting into the water supply the following precautions should be taken.
- ensure the reservoir and cover is in good condition and water tight.
- disinfect the walls of the storage tank every 1-2 years.
- ensure, where possible, that it is pest and animal proof i.e. fencing off the area.
If these measures do not improve the supply, it is recommended that a disinfection unit is installed (currently at a cost of approximately £300 with some additional maintenance costs).
Chemical Failure
Nitrates
High levels of nitrates is a common problem, particularly in highly agricultural areas. Animal studies have shown a link between breakdown products of nitrates with some cancers. Medical recommendation suggests levels over 100mg/L should be reduced to under 50mg/L.
What can be done to reduce nitrates?
Protect the source from chemical contamination.
Avoid using high nitrate chemicals near the source.
If this does not improve the situation it is recommended that an ion-exchange unit is installed. (These cost between £25-£500 with further maintenance costs).
Iron and Manganese
A yellowish brown discoloration of the water is usually indicative of high levels of iron and/or manganese. These chemicals do not affect health but may affect plumbing and domestic appliances. A black residue (Iron/Manganese bacteria) is deposited in the pipework, which may discolour laundry. It is recommended that an ion-exchange unit is installed to reduce the levels.
Lead
High levels of lead are damaging to health and may cause brain and central nervous system damage.
What can be done to reduce levels of lead?
Treatment of water containing lead includes:-
Replacement of all lead piping, cisterns, solder, etc.
Filtration of the water e.g. carbon filters.
Treatment of the water e.g. addition of calcium carbonate.
Other Chemical Failures
If your supply fails due to other chemicals, contact the Environmental Health Department who will give advice on any associated health implications.
For further information, contact:
Community Services
(Environmental Health)
The Guildhall
Frankwell Quay
Shrewsbury
SY3 8HQ
Telephone: 01743 281000 or email us at environmental.health@shrewsbury.gov.uk
Look under "Water" in the yellow pages for water treatment specialists.