Iron Bacteria
Water Quality
Naturally occurring bacteria that oxidize dissolved iron and form reddish slime in wells and plumbing.
Iron bacteria are not a health hazard but they cause major nuisance problems: reddish or rust-colored water, slimy buildup in pressure tanks and toilet tanks, clogged screens, and a swampy odor. They are common in shallow Utah wells and can dramatically reduce yield over time by plugging the well screen. Treatment is shock chlorination plus mechanical and chemical well rehabilitation.