Removing Iron Bacteria from Groundwater Bores in Perth

David Bennett
Oct 31
2 min read

Product Range: BoreSaver Ultra C®, BoreSaver Ultra C PRO®, BoreSaver IKL Pro®, and BoreSaver EZ-ECO®Manufacturer: Aquabiotics Industrial Pty Ltd – Australia Website: www.boresaver.com.au

1. Problem Overview

Iron bacteria thrive in groundwater bores where iron and oxygen coexist. They produce a gelatinous orange-brown slime that coats bore screens, pumps, and pipes—restricting water flow, causing staining, and accelerating corrosion.

2. Treatment Objectives

Eliminate iron bacteria biofilms and organic slime
Restore bore efficiency and flow rate
Prevent future bacterial regrowth and staining

3. Recommended Treatment System

Step 1 – Chemical Cleaning

Use: BoreSaver Ultra C® or Ultra C PRO®

Purpose: Dissolves iron bacteria slime, iron oxides, and corrosion residues.
Dosage: Typically 10–20 L per cubic metre of water in the bore, depending on fouling severity.
Application: Circulate or surge in bore for 4–6 hours (up to 24 hours for severe fouling).
Compatibility: Safe for stainless steel, mild steel, PVC, and polyethylene.

Alternative / Supplementary Option: BoreSaver EZ-ECO®

Environmentally friendly organic cleaner suitable for light to moderate fouling.
Effective where disposal regulations restrict acid-based products.

Step 2 – Mechanical Cleaning

Use mechanical brushing or airlifting to dislodge loosened debris.
Continue surging or backwashing until water runs clear.

Step 3 – Shock Disinfection

Follow chemical treatment with shock chlorination (500–1000 mg/L chlorine) or hydrogen peroxide oxidationto sterilize residual bacteria and oxidize any remaining iron.

Step 4 – Filtration and Prevention

Install an iron filter using aeration and catalytic media (e.g., Birm®, Greensand, Filox®) to remove dissolved iron before it enters reticulation systems.
Schedule preventive BoreSaver maintenance every 6–12 months depending on water chemistry.

4. Safety and Disposal

All BoreSaver products are biodegradable and NSF-approved for use in potable water systems.Dispose of waste rinse water in accordance with local environmental guidelines.

5. Typical Results