Groundwater is one of the most common raw water sources for drinking water. The water is naturally filtered through soil and bedrock formations, typically resulting in low turbidity and limited microbiological contamination. However, groundwater may contain naturally occurring substances such as iron, manganese, radon, fluoride, hardness minerals and, in some cases, elevated salinity.
Common Issues
- Iron
- Manganese
- Radon
- Fluoride
- Hard water (scaling minerals)
- Saltwater intrusion in coastal areas
- Bacteria in shallow or poorly protected wells
Advantages
- Typically low turbidity
- Generally stable water quality
- Limited algae impact
- Less affected by weather conditions
Common Treatment Methods
- UV Disinfection
- Aeration and Degassing
- Iron and Manganese Filtration
- Water Softening
- Activated Carbon
- Reverse Osmosis
Example Treatment Trains
Well Water
↓
Aeration
↓
Iron & Manganese Filter
↓
UV Disinfection
↓
Drinking Water
Well Water
↓
Aeration / Degassing
↓
UV Disinfection
↓
Drinking Water
Groundwater
↓
Water Softening
↓
UV Disinfection
↓
Drinking Water
Groundwater
↓
Particle Filter
↓
Reverse Osmosis
↓
UV Disinfection
↓
Drinking Water