Drilling a borehole provides a dependable source of groundwater. Homes and businesses can use up to 20,000 litres of water daily without needing a license, making it an affordable, long-term option. However, since this water isn’t treated like mains water, some might question is water from a borehole safe to drink?
What is Borehole Water?
Borehole water is groundwater accessed by drilling into the earth. It comes from underground aquifers, which store water naturally. This water is untreated and free from chemicals often used in supply systems. However, it may contain minerals, dirt, or bacteria depending on the area. Testing is important to check if it is safe to drink. Filtration and treatment might be required to make it suitable for consumption.
Differences Between Borehole & Mains Water
Borehole water and mains water chlorination differ in where they come from. Mains water is treated and purified recycled wastewater, making it safe to drink. Borehole water comes straight from the ground and isn’t always treated. Sometimes, it doesn’t need treatment if the source is naturally clean.
Should I Get a Borehole Installed?
Many small villages in the UK rely on boreholes for their drinking water, and some residents aren’t even aware of it. If you live in a rural area or need a lot of water for farming, installing a borehole could be a great option.
What Could Be Wrong With Borehole Water?
Mains water is 60% recycled wastewater, while borehole water comes straight from the ground, making it fresh and natural. However, borehole water can have higher levels of minerals like iron, magnesium, and calcium, along with some bacteria. Most of these are harmless, but they could cause illness in vulnerable groups like babies. Testing the water before regularly is important.
Make Borehole Water Safe to Drink
Make Sure the Connections are Hygienic
Hygienic connectors create strong seals that keep your borehole water distribution system intact. Choose durable plumbing materials like sturdy chains and ensure all connections are tight. This helps prevent contamination and protects your water supply from intruders.
Test the Water Quality Regularly
Regular testing is essential to monitor borehole water quality. Are there any hidden pollutants? Is the pH level consistent? Routine tests can confirm if the water is safe for drinking and everyday use.
Using Chemicals Properly
Chemicals can harm your borehole water just as much as fire can. Always store them away from the borehole and handle them with care. This helps protect your water supply in case of an accident.
Practising Hygienic Maintenance
Hygienic maintenance is key to keeping your borehole clean. Clear any debris or litter from the area around it, much like removing weeds from a garden. Regularly check for surface water runoff or erosion to prevent contamination before it occurs.
Keep the Borehole Safe
A secure cap on your borehole keeps out water, dirt, and debris. Sealing it tightly also prevents small animals and insects from contaminating your water supply.
Maintaining Your Pump Correctly
Regular pump maintenance increases its lifespan and ensures it works efficiently. Keep the water flowing smoothly by cleaning filters and screens according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Preventing Backflow
A backflow prevention system keeps your borehole safe from contamination. It blocks polluted water from flowing back. Regular inspection and maintenance keep it working effectively.
Look for Expert Help
Consult an expert if you’re unsure. Water quality specialists have the skills to inspect and service your borehole system, ensuring clean, safe water. For thorough testing, certified labs are ready to help.
Educate Users
Education helps ensure everyone has safe borehole water. Sharing information empowers people to protect their health. Raise awareness about the risks, encourage personal responsibility for water cleanliness, and motivate communities to safeguard the water supply.
Why Is My Borehole Water Brown?
Brown or dirty-looking water can have several causes, and it’s often hard to pinpoint the issue without proper investigation. Common reasons include:
- Contamination from surface infiltration
- Borehole collapse or a drop in water levels
- High levels of iron or manganese
- Rust or metal breakdown in pipes or fixtures
In many cases, water treatment can solve the problem. However, if the water remains brown, it’s best to have a professional inspect your water supply.
When Should I Get My Water Treated?
When you test your borehole water, you will receive a report showing its quality and whether it is safe to drink. Common reasons for treating borehole water include low pH, high magnesium or iron levels, turbidity, bacteria, nitrates, aluminium, or arsenic.
Speak With Our Borehole Specialists
If your report recommends treating the water supply, contact Comfort Services Group. Our team is experienced in handling this work. Call us on 01206 247010 or email mail@comfortservicesgroup.co.uk to speak with us.
FAQs
How do you purify borehole water?
Borehole water purifiers come in different designs and functions. The main types are reverse osmosis, activated carbon, and sand filters.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
These systems use a special membrane to remove chemicals and dissolved minerals. They are very effective but can be costly to install and maintain.
Activated Carbon Filters
These filters remove heavy metals, pesticides, and chlorine. Water passes through activated carbon, which absorbs these impurities.
Sand Filters
Sand filters are a low-cost option for removing dirt and sediment from water. However, they do not filter out dissolved chemicals or minerals.
Choosing the right purifier depends on your water quality. For dissolved impurities, reverse osmosis or activated carbon filters work best. If the issue is mostly dirt or sediment, a sand filter is a budget-friendly choice.
Is it safe to cook with borehole water?
Cooking with borehole water is safe if the water is treated properly. Test it for harmful contaminants like bacteria, heavy metals, or chemicals. Purify the water using boiling, filtration, or disinfectants. Regular testing and treatment keep it safe for cooking and drinking.
Can I drink borehole water?
Borehole water is generally safe to drink. However, it must be tested to meet drinking water standards as required by The Private Water Supplies Regulations.
We are proud to share our experience and knowledge and take pride in offering this to all clients when required. If I, or one of the team can help then please schedule a meeting via the office or get in touch via one of our social media platforms.
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