Why Most Well Sanitization Methods Don’t Work (And What Actually Does)

If your water test came back positive for coliform bacteria, don’t panic—you’re definitely not the only one. Thousands of well owners deal with this every year, and most try the same “quick fixes” that don’t actually solve the problem.

The Trouble With DIY Fixes

Bleach: The Go-To That Usually Fails

Bleach feels like the obvious choice—it’s cheap, easy to find, and full of chlorine. But here’s the catch: it’s not made for wells. The chlorine levels are inconsistent, the pH can throw things off, and the additives just aren’t designed for drinking water systems.

Pool Chemicals: Even Worse

Some people figure “chlorine is chlorine” and toss in pool tablets or granules. Big mistake. They don’t dissolve well, they build up at the bottom, and they can actually damage your equipment. Plus, you often end up spending more money on repeat treatments that don’t work.

A Smarter Solution: Wel-Chlor PLUS

The truth is, wells need something made for wells. That’s where Wel-Chlor PLUS comes in. It dissolves completely, does not increase pH, is NSF certified safe for drinking water, and takes the guesswork out of dosing. In other words, it’s the right tool for the job.

How to Sanitize Your Well (The Right Way)

1. Calculate your dose – Use our well calculator so you know exactly how much to use.
2. Mix it up – Dissolve the granules in clean water until it’s fully mixed.
3. Test pH – If your pH is too high, adjust the pH in the solution
4. Add & circulate – Pour it in and make sure it gets mixed throughout the well water.
5. Wait it out – Let it sit for 24–36 hours. Skimping on time is the #1 reason treatments fail.
6. Flush & test – Pump the water until the chlorine is gone, then test to confirm.

When to Call in the Pros

Most wells respond well to this process, but if you’re still seeing contamination—or your setup is more complex—give us a call and we will be happy to help. 

💡 Pro tip: Get your water tested at least once a year. It’s the easiest way to catch problems early.