How to Remove Slime from Boreholes in Australia

Borehole slime — a sticky, biofilm-like layer caused by iron bacteria and mineral deposits — is one of the most common causes of reduced bore yield and poor water quality in Australia. Over time, it can clog screens, pumps, and pipework, leading to higher maintenance costs and even permanent bore damage if untreated.

1. Identify the Cause of Slime Formation

Bore slime typically develops when iron and manganese bacteria oxidise dissolved minerals in groundwater. This process produces a gelatinous mass that coats bore casings, screens, and pump components. Symptoms include:

• Reduced water flow or pump performance

• Discoloured or rusty water

• Slimy or foul-smelling residues on bore fittings

2. Mechanical Cleaning Methods

Mechanical cleaning removes accumulated deposits, biofilms, and sediment using physical agitation. Common techniques include:

• Bore brushing – Mechanical or rotary brushes scrub bore screens and casings.

• Airlifting – Compressed air lifts debris and slime from the bore.

• High-pressure jetting – Targets hard-to-reach sections and cleans the aquifer around the bore screen.

• Hydraulic blowout – Dislodges blockages and improves bore efficiency.

These techniques restore flow and prepare the bore for chemical cleaning.

3. Chemical Treatment for Biofouling and Iron Bacteria

Once mechanical cleaning is complete, the bore is treated with biodegradable chemical solutions to dissolve remaining iron bacteria, scale, and rust.Products such as BoreSaver Ultra C Pro, EZECO, or Multikleen are widely used in Australia for safe and effective bore cleaning. These treatments are circulated through the bore for several hours before flushing to ensure deep penetration and removal of biofouling layers.

Regular treatment every 6–12 months helps prevent reformation of slime and ensures long-term bore performance.

4. Professional Bore Cleaning Services

While some light cleaning can be done by bore owners, professional bore rehabilitation contractors are recommended for severe fouling or mineral encrustation.Companies such as KTR Services, Australind Water Bores, Flow Water Services, or NewGround Water Serviceshave the equipment and experience to safely restore water flow and maintain compliance with environmental guidelines.

5. Environmental Considerations

Always choose biodegradable and non-toxic cleaning products to protect groundwater quality and surrounding ecosystems. Proper waste disposal and flushing procedures should be followed to prevent contamination.

Key Takeaways

• Combine mechanical cleaning and biodegradable chemical treatment for best results.

• Use BoreSaver Ultra C Pro, EZECO, or Multikleen for dissolving iron bacteria slime and mineral scale.

• Schedule regular maintenance and inspections to prevent costly rehabilitation.

• Hire experienced bore cleaning professionals for reliable and environmentally responsible service.

#Hashtags

bore slime removal, borehole cleaning Australia, water well cleaning, iron bacteria removal, bore maintenance, bore cleaning chemicals, BoreSaver Ultra C Pro, biodegradable bore cleaner, removing slime from boreholes, water bore rehabilitation, Western Australia bore cleaning services

References[1] Lanye GeoScience, Water Well Rehabilitation by Neil Mansuy (2000)[2] Aquabiotics Industrial – BoreSaver.com.au[3] Australian Groundwater Association, Technical Bulletin on Bore Maintenance (2018)[4] WA Department of Water and Environmental Regulation, Bore Maintenance and Rehabilitation Guidelines