There should not be any fecal coliform in your water system. The presence of E.coli indicates that the source or system has been impacted by recent faecal contamination and the water is unsafe to drink. The presence of other coliform bacteria is not necessarily an indication of a health risk, however this may indicate that either there is a surface water pathway into your well that should be sealed or that a biofilm has developed within the well or plumbing system.

Coliforms are naturally found in soil and vegetation as well as animal wastes and sewage. Fecal coliforms are a possible sign of contamination from sewage, a failed septic field, a dead animal, or manure. Temporary bacterial contamination can occur during well construction.

Water containing bacteria should not be used for drinking unless it is boiled for five minutes or disinfected by other means.