Unfortunately, iron is also difficult to treat to a satisfactory level. This difficulty is due to the fact that iron can be found in well water in several forms, each of which may require a different water treatment for removal or control. Other factors, like the pH level of the well water, will also affect how successful a well water treatment approach will be. However, once the well water conditions are known, choosing the best iron removal method or treatment is straightforward.

Neither iron nor manganese in water presents a health hazard. However, their presence in water may cause taste, staining and accumulation problems.Because iron and manganese are chemically similar, they cause similar problems. Iron will cause reddish-brown staining of laundry, porcelain, dishes, utensils and even glassware. Manganese acts in a similar way but causes a brownish-black stain. Soaps and detergents do not remove these stains, and the use of chlorine bleach and alkaline builders (such as sodium carbonate) can actually intensify the stains.

Iron and manganese deposits will build up in pipelines, pressure tanks, water heaters, appliances, water softeners and water filters. This reduces the available quantity and pressure of the water supply. Iron and manganese accumulations become an economic problem when water supply or water softening/treatment equipment must be replaced. Also, pumping water through constricted pipes or heating water with heating rods coated with iron or manganese minerals increase energy costs.

How to tell if you have iron!