Got That Funky Well Water Smell? Here’s Your Fix.
If your well water has a strange odor or you’ve recently done repairs, you might be wondering: is my water safe to drink? Chlorine dioxide is one of the most effective ways to disinfect well water without the harmful byproducts of regular chlorine.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to treat well water with chlorine dioxide safely and effectively, using simple steps and tools you can find in our Oneness Drops kit.
Why Chlorine Dioxide Works for Well Water Disinfection
Unlike chlorine bleach, chlorine dioxide is a more targeted disinfectant that destroys bacteria, viruses, and even algae without altering the taste of your water. The EPA approves its use for drinking water, and it’s been trusted in water treatment plants for decades.
Whether you’re handling:
- coliform contamination,
- new well installations, or
- post-repair disinfection,
Chlorine dioxide is your go-to for peace of mind.
How to Treat Well Water with Chlorine Dioxide: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Bypass Your Water Treatment Systems
Temporarily bypass any water filters, softeners, or RO units. These systems can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine dioxide during disinfection.
Step 2: Calculate Water Volume
Use this quick formula:
6″ diameter well = ~1.5 gallons per foot.
So, a 100-ft well holds around 150 gallons. Use an online well volume calculator if unsure.
Step 3: Mix the Chlorine Dioxide Solution
- In a ventilated area (never indoors), combine equal parts sodium chlorite and hydrochloric acid (4–5%).
- Let it sit for 1 minute until yellow-brown.
- Add 1 gallon of clean water.
- For each gallon of water in the well, add about 8 drops each of sodium chlorite and HCl.
Example: For 150 gallons, that’s 60 mL of each solution.
Get the full kit here: Oneness Drops Chlorine Dioxide Water Treatment Kit
Step 4: Pour Solution into the Well
Carefully pour your activated solution directly into the well casing. If possible, attach a hose to a faucet and run it back into the well to circulate for 15–30 minutes.
Step 5: Run All Faucets
Open every faucet in the house until you smell a faint chlorine scent. Then, shut them off to let the solution sit.
Step 6: Let It Sit
Let the chlorine dioxide work for 6–12 hours (overnight works great).
Step 7: Flush the System
Flush outdoor faucets first (away from plants). Then flush all indoor taps until the odor disappears.
Step 8: Test Your Water
Wait 5–7 days and test for coliform and other contaminants. If it’s not clear yet, repeat with a stronger dose.
FAQs About Chlorine Dioxide for Well Water
Q: Is chlorine dioxide safe for drinking water?
A. Yes. When properly dosed, chlorine dioxide is approved by the EPA for disinfecting drinking water.
Q: How often should I disinfect my well?
A. After major repairs, flooding, or every 6–12 months as part of routine maintenance.
Q: Can I use this method on rainwater tanks?
A. Absolutely. For that, check our guide: How to Disinfect a Water Storage Tank
Q: Will chlorine dioxide change the taste of my water?
A. It might slightly at first, but less so than chlorine bleach and the taste typically fades after flushing.d now you’re using the same tech to treat your well. Pretty cool, right?
Keep Your Water Safe Year-Round
This method is perfect for one-time cleanups or post-repair peace of mind. But if your well keeps testing positive, consider calling a professional. For long-term water storage or prepper use, we also offer full chlorine dioxide water storage guides.
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Take Action
Ready to clean your well? Grab the Oneness Drops Kit with Hydrochloric Acid Activator now.
Use code PUREPATH15 at checkout to get 15% OFF your order.
