Waterborne Bacteria
Waterborne bacteria are microscopic organisms that can contaminate water sources and pose health risks if ingested. These tiny troublemakers can cause a range of illnesses, from mild stomach upset to more serious infections. Common culprits include E. coli and coliform bacteria, often originating from animal waste or sewage contamination. Protecting your water supply through regular testing and appropriate treatment is crucial for safeguarding your health and well-being. Below are some examples of bacteria and how at Chatfield we can help you rid the water of these things.
Nuisance Bacteria
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While most bacteria in your water are harmless, nuisance bacteria like iron bacteria (often mistakenly called iron algae) can cause quite a headache.
These tiny microbes feed on iron and manganese, creating rust-colored slime, unpleasant odors, and even clogs in your pipes. They can stain your laundry, affect the taste of your water, and even shorten the lifespan of your appliances.
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Read our blog post about slime bacteria here.
Total coliform bacteria are a group of microorganisms that are commonly found in the environment, including soil, water, and the intestines of humans and animals. While most coliform bacteria are not harmful themselves, their presence in drinking water can indicate potential contamination with fecal matter. This means there's a risk that disease-causing bacteria, viruses, or parasites could also be present. Testing for total coliform is a key indicator of drinking water safety, and if detected, further investigation and treatment are necessary to protect public health.
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Total Coliform
Escherichia coli (E.coli)
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E. coli is a type of bacteria that's commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. In drinking water, E. coli is a red flag for fecal contamination, meaning disease-causing organisms may be present. This contamination can lead to gastrointestinal issues, with symptoms like diarrhea, cramps, and nausea. Young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable. If E. coli is detected in your water, it's crucial to take immediate action to disinfect and treat the water supply to ensure its safety.
Cysts in drinking water, while microscopic, can pose a significant health risk. These hardy, protective capsules shield parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium, allowing them to survive harsh conditions and even resist some disinfection methods. If ingested, these parasites can cause gastrointestinal illness with symptoms like diarrhea, cramps, and nausea, potentially lasting for weeks. Protecting your drinking water through effective filtration and treatment is vital to remove these microscopic threats and safeguard your health.
Cysts
