Well Water Bacteria Treatment — Owings, MD
An Owings homeowner had their annual well water test come back positive for total coliform bacteria. We performed a shock chlorination of the well, retested after 10 days, and confirmed bacteria-free results. We also identified and sealed the likely entry point.
The Problem
An Owings homeowner received their annual well water test results showing total coliform bacteria present. Coliform bacteria in well water is a health concern and requires immediate action. The homeowner had been using the water for drinking and cooking.
Our Diagnosis
Total coliform positive with no E. coli detected — indicating surface water intrusion rather than fecal contamination. We inspected the well casing and found a gap in the well cap seal where insects and surface water could enter. The gap was the likely entry point for the bacteria. Shock chlorination would disinfect the well; sealing the cap would prevent recurrence.
The Repair Process
- 1Confirmed total coliform positive — no E. coli detected
- 2Inspected well casing and cap — found gap in cap seal
- 3Calculated chlorine dose for well depth and casing diameter
- 4Poured chlorine solution into well — circulated through system
- 5Ran all fixtures until chlorine smell detected — confirmed distribution
- 6Allowed 24-hour contact time
- 7Flushed system until chlorine smell dissipated
- 8Sealed well cap gap with new gasket and cap
- 9Retest at 10 days — confirmed bacteria-free
The Outcome
Well water bacteria-free at 10-day retest. Well cap sealed to prevent recurrence. Homeowner advised on annual testing schedule and signs of contamination.
Key Takeaway
Total coliform bacteria in well water almost always indicates surface water intrusion — a compromised well cap, casing crack, or nearby contamination source. Shock chlorination disinfects the well; identifying and sealing the entry point prevents recurrence. Annual testing is the only way to catch contamination before it becomes a health crisis.
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May 2026
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Southern Maryland
June 2026
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Dunkirk, MD
June 2026
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