• Well water treatments may be needed to remove contaminants, chemicals and sediment from the water.water image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com
  
  According to NSF, there are not many regulations regarding the water quality of private wells. It is usually tested at the time of installation, but it is up to the individual homeowner to maintain the quality of well water. Water treatments are available to treat a variety of problems that are determined by testing.
  
  

Filters

• Filters remove sediment, correct pH and eliminate odor and taste problems, according to the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service of North Carolina State University (NCSU). Carbon filters are available in a variety of types. Faucet mounted filters are attached to the faucet. In-line filters and line bypass filters are placed below the sink in the supply line for cold water only. Point-of-entry filters, which are more expensive than other types, are located where the water enters the home. Pour-through filters are the least expensive. Fiber filters remove contaminants by trapping the particles in cellulose or rayon fibers. Adjustment of the water's pH is accomplished with neutralizing filters or by chemical-feed pumps. Ideally, water is neutral at pH of 7. Neutralizing filters treat water that is no lower than pH 6. If the water is less than pH 6, chemical-feed pumps are used to inject a solution to neutralize the water.
  
  

Disinfectants/Softeners

• Disinfectants are used to destroy microorganisms, such as bacteria. NCSU indicates that methods include chlorination, ultraviolet light and ozone. Chlorination systems provide chlorine continuously to kill bacteria. Shock chlorination may be attempted prior to purchasing a continuous system. This may be done by adding chlorine, in high concentrations, to the well. Ordinary, plain household bleach is used in a quantity based on the diameter of the well and the height of the standing water. Prior to performing shock chlorination, drinking water should be stored as well water cannot be used for a minimum of 24 hours. Two weeks following the procedure the water should be tested for bacteria. Water softeners are used to remove calcium and magnesium ions and replace them with sodium ions. Softening can be accomplished by manually adding salt to the softening tank, semi-automatically by turning on a switch when it is needed or automatically, with a system that is set on a timer.
  
  

Reserve Osmosis

• A reverse osmosis unit removes chemicals, such as nitrates, magnesium and calcium, from the water. According to NCSU, this type of system includes a pre-filter for the removal of sediment, a carbon filter for eliminating odors and bad taste, a semi-permeable membrane, a holding tank and a drain for removing the contaminants. Systems are available in different sizes and may be placed beneath the sink or in other locations.
  
  

Distillers

• According to NCSU, a distiller can remove minerals, chemicals and all other impurities. It heats the water to boiling to eliminate the contaminants. The distilled water goes into a holding tank where it is piped to a designated faucet for use. Distillers are available in sizes that can produce less than one quart per hour to a half-gallon per hour.