A test kit can be obtained from your local public health department office. Private laboratories also test water for coliforms. They will also test for chemical contamination. If coliforms are found in the water, the well can be disinfected as described below. Liquid household chlorine bleach is an effective and economical disinfectant.
Chlorine bleach is also available in a granule form.
Calculate the amount of disinfectant needed by using the calculation table provided below. Determine the depth of the well in feet. Multiply this measurement by the computed amount of bleach to use. This is equal to 11.25 gallons using the conversion of 16 cups in one gallon. Use an appropriately sized, clean container and pour the measured volume of chlorine bleach into the well.