Iron Staining and Bore Water: Causes and Solutions

Clothes on a washing line with iron staining beside a Puretec iron treatment system

Orange-brown stains on basins, toilets, shower floors and laundry are usually caused by high iron levels, which Puretec says are most common in bore water. Because iron also stops chlorine filtration and UV sterilisation from working properly, the first step is a water test. Where high iron is found, Puretec most often recommends its IronStop™ series, along with regular bore maintenance.

Signs of iron in your water

Puretec describes the residue from orange-brown water leaving its mark on basins, bathtubs, shower floors, toilet tanks, pipework and tapware, and staining clothes. Iron can also cause a slime-like build-up in plumbing. Brown water without orange staining may instead be caused by tannins – see our tannin guide.

Why test your water first

Puretec states that when treating surface or bore water, a water test needs to be done before buying a system, so the correct solution is applied and no other pre-filtration or treatment is required. Its Water Analysis Test Kit makes this simple: take a sample, return it in the prepaid post bag, and Puretec provides an analysis and recommendations. Puretec lists parameters including pH, conductivity, TDS, hardness, iron, silica, nitrate, manganese, copper, sodium, alkalinity, fluoride and sulphates. The kit does not directly test for bacteria, but Puretec says bacteria will be covered in its recommendations.

Puretec’s iron treatment options

IronStop™ series

Puretec describes IronStop as an iron and iron bacteria treatment system that helps prevent staining and iron build-up in pipework and reduces iron, manganese, sediment and hydrogen sulphide. The premium Z series has an in-built ozone generator, and the X series uses an air injector to increase the oxidation rate. Puretec says both provide increased iron removal and may eliminate the need for an aeration tank. IronStop systems are specified after a water test – call us to discuss.

BoreSafe™ bore cleaners

Puretec recommends BoreSafe for any bore with iron in the water, whether old or newly established, with a regular maintenance dose to reduce iron build-up, protect your pump and reduce energy costs. BoreSafe Blast5 is for maintenance; Blast98 is described as 20 times stronger for bores with heavy iron deposits.

Other products that help

Water softeners – Puretec’s Softrol systems are designed for hardness, and Puretec states they also reduce traces of metals such as copper, iron and manganese.
Shower filters – Puretec states the SF240-CH reduces iron oxide (rust), sediment, chlorine and hydrogen sulfide at the shower head.
Sediment pre-filtration – Puretec’s EM2 systems use a washable first-stage cartridge that filters dirt, rust and algae. They are designed for rainwater but can be used on bore water – Puretec advises seeking its advice before purchase.

Iron and UV systems

If you plan to use UV to treat bore water for bacteria, iron needs to be addressed first – Puretec notes iron prevents UV sterilisation methods from working.

Installation: connection to your water supply must be carried out by a licensed plumber, and any hard-wired electrical work by a licensed electrician.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my water leaving orange-brown stains?

High iron levels are the usual cause, and Puretec says iron contamination is most common in bore water. A water test confirms the cause and the right treatment.

Can a standard cartridge filter remove iron?

Puretec does not present standard cartridges as an iron solution. Where high iron is found, it most often recommends its IronStop series after a water test.