Client Support

Water Doctor

Ask the Doctor – We Specialize in Client Support

We're committed to providing a comprehensive resource for your water treatment and water testing needs. Whether you're looking for troubleshooting assistance, guidance for your water treatment system, or information about common water quality concerns, we're here to help.



Our goal is to make it easier for you to find answers, understand your system, and make informed decisions about your water treatment and testing needs.

How To Bypass Your Treatment System

Bypassing your treatment system routes water around the equipment rather than through it. Simply unplugging a system does not turn it off.

A system should be bypassed when:

• Well work is being performed
• Troubleshooting low water pressure
• You need to stop a leak

1. Look for three valves that are labeled: “In, Out, Bypass.”
2. These Valves may be spread out in different positions, but should be labeled.
3. Close both the In & Out Valves.
4. Open the Bypass Valve.

You may have bypasses behind the control on each tank. With your hand or piece of pipe, turn handle so the pointer is at “bypass.”

If you have this style of bypass, turn the two knobs in the direction of the arrow; so they “cross the pipes.” This picture depicts a system on bypass.

Power Outages and Other Water Emergencies

Power outages and water issues can affect your treatment system. The following steps can help restore proper operation.

• After power is restored, reset the timer on each treatment system to the current time of day. Be sure the clock is set correctly for AM or PM. The backwash settings are pre-programmed and do not need to be changed.
• If you have no water, check the pressure gauge on your pressure tank. If it reads "0," inspect the breaker for your well pump and reset it if necessary. If water does not return, contact our office.
• Check the GFI outlet if your system is plugged into one. Press the reset button if needed.
• Make sure the bypass valve is closed and the inlet and outlet valves are open. An open bypass allows untreated water into the home.
• If your water is discolored, run cold water for 10 to 15 minutes. If the discoloration continues, manual backwashing may be necessary. Consult your system manual or contact our office for assistance.
• If power has been restored but water has not returned, your system may have a Low Water Cut-off Switch (LWCO). Hold the silver lever on the pressure switch at approximately a 45-degree angle until the pressure gauge rises to 20–30 psi, then release it. Contact our office if you need assistance.
• To determine whether discolored water is coming from the well or the treatment system, bypass the system and run water for 10 to 15 minutes. Keep in mind that bypassing the system may allow sediment or discolored water into the home, so use minimal water during this process.

Educational Resource: Water Contaminant Information

Bacteria – Fecal and Coliform

Bacteria can enter a well through a cracked or improperly sealed well cap, shallow wells, or leaks in underground plumbing. If left untreated, bacteria in drinking water can continue to grow. A thorough well chlorination and inspection of the well cap are recommended first. If the problem continues, an ultraviolet light system may be installed. Contact our office to discuss the best solution for your water.

Nitrates

Nitrates are considered harmful to infants under six months old because they may contribute to "blue baby syndrome." This temporary blood disorder is reversible once the source of contamination is removed. Older children and adults are generally able to reject the effects of nitrates.

The EPA maximum allowable level is 10 ppm. Reverse osmosis systems are effective for treating nitrates.

Lead in Water

The U.S. EPA maximum allowable level for lead is 15 ppb. Lead may leach from plumbing solder or service lines, especially when water is acidic.

An acid neutralizer system can help reduce corrosion caused by acidic water. Reverse osmosis systems and carbon/KDF filters are also available for drinking water treatment.

Radon Gas in Water

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas produced by the natural decay of uranium rock. It is considered carcinogenic when inhaled.

Radon in water can enter the air during activities such as showering or washing clothes. For every 10,000 picocuries of radon in water, approximately 1 picocurie is added to the air. Water testing should be accompanied by radon-in-air testing to determine the appropriate treatment. Treatment options include Air Stripping Systems and Carbon Filtration.

Radium

Radium is a naturally occurring radioactive metal found in rocks, soil, and groundwater. According to the EPA, long-term ingestion of radium in drinking water may increase the risk of cancer. A gross alpha test may be used to evaluate the presence of radium. Water softeners and reverse osmosis systems are effective treatment options.

Contact Us

If you have questions about your water treatment system, need troubleshooting assistance, or would like to schedule a free water analysis, contact our team. We're here to help you find the right solution for your water quality concerns.