Cheap Ways to Filter Water That Is High in Sulfur & Iron
- Inject the chlorine directly into the well, pumping system or water pipe. The dosage of chlorine needs to be 50 to 200 parts per million. Let the chlorine stay in the water for around 24 hours and then allow the water to run until the residues of chlorine disappear. Use unscented household bleach to remove sulfur odor from the water. This is a temporary measure as the odor will return in a few days or weeks. Repeat the chlorine injection method.
Average homeowners should use just unscented household bleach for removing sulfur odor after taking proper precautions, such as gloves and safety goggles. Chlorine in gaseous form is toxic if inhaled and nonprofessionals should never attempt using any other form of chlorine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website gives details on the quantity of household bleach and how to use it to remove odors and treat well water. - This water filtration method is good for removing high iron content, but requires a storage tank, so the water gets sufficient time to stay in contact with the chlorine. Chlorine is introduced into the storage tank at specific intervals regularly and then the water is exposed to air for aeration.
Chlorine in the form of unscented household bleach should be used by homeowners as chlorine gas is toxic when inhaled, according to the CDC. Once you add chlorine circulate the water with a pump and hose to mix it thoroughly. This way the water will also get aerated. - A greensand filter contains a coating of magnesium dioxide, which releases oxygen. The filter is good for filtering water with high iron content. The oxygen reacts with the iron and the resultant compound is trapped in the bed of the filter. As the amount of oxygen reduces in the unit, a weak potassium permanganate solution, 2 to 4 ozs. for every cubic foot of water, is introduced into the greensand media.
Greensand media is made from glauconite greensand, which helps in removing hydrogen sulfide, iron and manganese from the water through the process of oxidation and precipitation. Once these chemical compounds come in contact with the manganese present on greensand particles, the chemical reaction occurs.
A household will spend between $75 and $100 each year on potassium permanganate. The tank holding the potassium permanganate needs annual cleaning to maintain its effectiveness. The greensand media needs replacement every five years as the manganese coating wears off. - While chlorine is a cheap and effective way to filter water that is high in sulfur and iron, if the well does not have a lining or casing, other contaminants could seep into the well water. If this occurs, drill a new well or upgrade the existing one. Furthermore, the chlorine may make the water softener ineffective.
Household bleach burns the skin when it comes in contact with it. Take proper safety precautions when using the bleach. Keep the bleach out of reach of children and pets.