Discovering E. coli in your well water is alarming but you are not alone. A user in r/homestead recently shared that their well tested positive for E. Coli, leaving them worried about the health of their family and unsure what to do next. E. coli in drinking water can cause serious gastrointestinal illness, especially in young children, the elderly, or anyone with a weakened immune system. It’s a sign that something in your well system is allowing contamination to enter, whether from surface water, animal waste, breakdowns in the well casing or seal, or issues with the pump or plumbing.
The first step is always retesting to confirm the result. Solutions often include shocking the well (a controlled introduction of disinfectant), installing a UV filtration system, using activated carbon or other filters, and ensuring the wellhead is sealed and properly protected. In many cases, fixing the well system, separating it properly from septic or animal waste, and maintaining a protective perimeter around the well can greatly reduce the risk of recontamination.
For homesteaders who want to protect their families proactively, the proper test kit makes all the difference. Our Water Bacteria & Microbes Test Kit is designed for exactly this kind of situation. It lets you detect microbial contamination — including E. coli and coliform bacteria — in your water source quickly at home. Paired with good hygiene, frequent testing, and filtration or remediation as needed, this gives you the power to ensure your well water is safe.
