Introduction to Water Filters
Today, homeowners are increasing aware of and concerned about their private well water quality. As a full service well company we
will recommend and install the proper water treatment equipment for your well and service that equipment as needed. Not only will
the proper water filter resolve taste and staining issues, it will reduce the likelihood of costly plumbing repairs.
In general the ground water quality on Cape Cod is very good. The most common water quality problems are acidic water and water
with elevated iron levels. Other problems that that occur less frequently are elevated manganese, sodium, and nitrate levels.
After each well is drilled (whether it is for potable use or irrigation), we have the water tested at a certified laboratory. Upon review of
the water test results, we will recommend a water treatment system, if appropriate. If you suspect a problem with your water quality
we will arrange to test the water and review the results with you.
Neutralizing Filters
Nearly all well water on Cape Cod is slightly acidic (has low pH). The water attacks the copper plumbing system in your house and
produces green stains in your shower or bath tub. The lower the pH, the greater the rate of attack. While the green stains are a
nuisance to clean, the greater concern is the damage that is slowly occurring to the plumbing system. Left untreated, the result will
eventually be pin hole leaks in the water pipes. Fortunately, this problem is relatively easy to correct thru the installation of a properly
selected Neutralizing Filter. These filters are usually installed next to your well tank and treat all the water that is used in your house.
As the water flows thru the filter media the pH is raised to a neutral level. Over a period of time the media slowly dissolves and
eventually must be replenished. The media is naturally occurring calcium carbonate, is not harmful to drinking water, generally does
not change the taste, but can increase the water hardness.
Iron filters
The second most common problem is elevated iron levels. Depending in the amount of iron dissolved in the water, you may
experience reddish brown stains in the toilet or bathroom sink, or the white wash may be discolored. This is obviously a nuisance,
but this water is not harmful to drink. Since various types of whole house filters can be used for this problem, careful review of the
water test results is important in selecting the proper iron removal system.
Other Water Quality Issues
Manganese in the water causes staining similar to iron, except the color is brown or black. Nitrates are sometimes an indicator of
possible septic system contamination, though more frequently they are a result of farming activities from years ago. Should the
nitrate level exceed 10 parts per million the local heath department will not approve the well for potable use. Sodium levels must be
fairly high for you to taste it in the water. Generally we only encounter sodium problems when drilling wells on properties directly
bordering a salt water body or marsh.
All of these quality problems require a different treatment method. Multiple problems requiring multiple treatment devices can
become quite expensive. Our objective is to avoid or minimize adverse water quality at the source – the well. Additional time and
care in test drilling can lead to screen zone selections with improved water quality. Sometimes it may be advisable to go back in and
redrill the well or relocate the well, if possible, in an attempt to improve quality and eliminate treatment.
Service & Repair
Water filters require periodic service to maintain performance. Many require annual media replenishment or replacement; others
need less frequent attention. We service all equipment we sell. Our service personnel are available for either scheduled or
immediate service, should the need arise.
So, no matter how big or small your water problem, give us a call and put our 40 years of experience to work for you.