Iron and Manganese in your Bore or Spear water may be causing Staining 

Iron staining - the causes and the solutions
Iron staining is a common complaint from many bore and spear owners in Queensland and the Gold Coast/Brisbane area.

Iron becomes a problem when it oxidises to form ‘Iron oxide’ or ‘Rust’.

Bore and Spear Water comes out of the ground quite clear to the naked eye(in most cases), and later it either changes colour, or starts to show signs of suspended orange/brown particles(dissolved iron or manganese). This can cause unsightly staining on common fixtures, such as fences, garden ornaments, footpaths and garden edging etc. Iron can also cause blockages in sprinklers, taps and irrigation outlets, over time. Reducing the iron content in your spear or bore water will prolong the life of the installation and also solve the issues relating to the unsightly staining that occurs as a result.

Iron and Bacteria  

Staining may be caused (in some cases) by precipitation of iron oxide from iron rich groundwater commonly associated with organic sediments,  acidic conditions,  the absence  of dissolved oxygen and /or micro-biological activity(iron bacteria) The result is rusty staining (reddish-brown sometimes also accompanied by multi coloured streaks) on structures or even plants that may be subjected to prolonged irrigation or contact with this water. Black coloured staining may be caused by the presence of soil carbon or manganese oxide precipitate.

Iron is the metal that is most common on earth. Therefore, very prevalent in soils and groundwater. Dissolved iron can be found in concentrations up-to 50 milligrams per litre. Iron salts become increasingly soluble as groundwater becomes more acidic. In anoxic and acidic groundwater(pH levels below5) iron concentrations of one to 20 milligrams per litre are very common(usually as stable carbonates).

When acidic groundwater reaches the surface and mixes with air, carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide(rotten egg gas) is often the result. The pH rises and the iron precipitates as ferric hydroxide (rust) on any surface, where it rests and the water evaporates leaving behind the unsightly Iron.

Iron Removal Systems from Global Water Solutions