Good quality water is very important for every day life. It is a requirement that every house has a good supply of clean, fresh water of good quality.

The water should be tested regularly to establish if it is safe to drink; it should be free from contaminants such as certain bacteria and chemicals. The water supply can fail the current recommended guidelines on levels of bacteria or chemicals.

Bacteriological failure

Private water supplies are frequently polluted with bacteria called "coliforms". These bacteria foul the water supply when it becomes contaminated with sewage or animal and bird excrement. Medical evidence has shown that these bacteria in water can pose a health risk. Through regular drinking of the water you may develop resistance or immunity to the bacteria, but babies, the young, the elderly and visitors to your premises may not be so resistant and they may develop a gastrointestinal illness.

To prevent harmful bacteria getting into the water supply the following precautions should be taken:

• ensure the borehole/well surround and covers are in good condition and water tight;
• disinfect storage tanks every 1-2 years;
• ensure, where possible, that the top of the borehole or well is pest and animal proof by blocking up any access holes and keeping animals, birds and vermin away from the immediate area.

If these measures do not improve the supply, it is recommended that a disinfection unit is installed (currently (2005) at a cost of approximately £300 with some additional maintenance costs).

Chemical failure

Nitrates - High levels of nitrates are common problem, particularly as we are in an agricultural area.  Medical recommendation suggests levels over 100mg/L should be reduced to under 50mg/L. An ion-exchange unit can be installed to reduce the levels. (These cost between £25-£500 (2005) with further maintenance costs).

Iron and Manganese - A yellowish brown discoloration of the water is usually indicative of high levels of iron and/or manganese. These chemicals do not affect health but may affect plumbing and domestic appliances. A black residue (iron/manganese bacteria) is deposited in the pipework, which may discolour laundry. It is recommended that an ion-exchange unit is installed to reduce the levels.

Other chemical failures - If your supply fails due to other chemicals, contact Environmental Health tel: 01284 757053 or email: community@stedsbc.gov.uk, who will give advice on any associated health implications.

Details of companies who are water treatment specialists can be found in the Yellow Pages under "Water".