Best chemical treatments for bore water in Australia

In Australia, effective bore water treatment depends on addressing specific issues such as high mineral content, salinity, iron contamination, and microbial presence. The right solution will vary depending on the source water quality and its intended use—whether for drinking, irrigation, or industrial purposes.

Common Bore Water Treatment Methods

• Reverse Osmosis (RO):

  
  

  Widely used for desalination, RO removes dissolved salts and impurities, achieving 95–99% contaminant rejection. It is particularly valuable in high-salinity regions where other methods may not provide adequate results.

• Iron Removal:

  
  

  Iron and manganese are common in Australian bores and can cause staining, blockages, and reduced flow. Removal typically involves chlorine dosing, aeration, and media filtration to oxidize and separate contaminants. For highly effective bore and pump cleaning, BoreSaver Ultra C Pro is recommended.

• Iron Stain Prevention:

  
  

  Once iron has been removed, prevention is key. The StainStopper Pulse system, manufactured in Perth by Aquabiotics Industrial, is designed to protect irrigation systems from unsightly staining.

• Water Softening:

  
  

  Hardness caused by calcium and magnesium salts can damage infrastructure and reduce efficiency. Water softeners work through ion exchange or conditioning units that alter the ionic structure, improving water performance and longevity of equipment.

• Disinfection:

  
  

  Ultraviolet (UV) sterilization provides a chemical-free method to kill bacteria and viruses while preserving the natural taste of the water.

• Filtration:

  
  

  Depending on the bore conditions, options include multimedia filters, cartridge and bag filters, and automatic backwashing screen filters to remove sediments and suspended particles.

• Chemical-Free Technologies:

  
  

  While promising options exist, solid independent testing is required before widespread recommendation.

Key Considerations

Before selecting a treatment system, it is essential to conduct thorough water testing to identify specific contaminants. Treatment must also be matched to the intended use—whether potable, agricultural, or industrial—and must comply with local water regulations.

Local Expertise

Australia is home to several providers who specialize in bore water treatment and rehabilitation, including:

• Australind Water Bores

• KTR Well Rehabilitation Services

• Water Bore Redevelopers

• Dardy Gardens

These companies provide tailored solutions designed for Australian conditions, helping ensure reliable, safe, and efficient water supply.