Iron and Manganese Removal
Solving the Most Common and Frustrating Well Water Problem
Iron and manganese contamination affects over 40% of private wells, causing unsightly stains, metallic taste, and expensive appliance damage throughout your home.
Iron and manganese are among the most persistent and problematic well water contaminants, creating a cascade of issues that affect every aspect of your daily water use. These naturally occurring minerals dissolve into groundwater as it passes through iron-bearing rock and soil formations, often appearing harmless when first drawn from your well but quickly causing problems when exposed to air. The frustration begins with orange-brown iron stains on fixtures, laundry, and dishes, while manganese creates distinctive black or purple discoloration. Beyond the aesthetic problems, these minerals create metallic tastes, unpleasant odors, and can feed iron bacteria that produce slimy deposits and foul smells throughout your plumbing system. Most importantly, iron and manganese cause premature failure of water heaters, washing machines, and other appliances, leading to costly repairs and replacements that far exceed the cost of proper water treatment.

Types of Iron in Well Water
Iron in well water may be indicated by slimy deposits, a rotten egg or swamp-like odor, an oily or reddish sheen on the surface. These signs typically require professional treatment beyond standard filtration.
Ferrous Iron (Clear Water Iron)
Dissolved iron that appears clear when first drawn from the well but oxidizes rapidly when exposed to air, creating the familiar orange-brown stains and metallic taste.
Ferric Iron (Red Water Iron)
Iron that has already oxidized in the well or plumbing system, appearing as visible rust particles that make water look orange or red immediately.
Iron Bacteria Contamination
Living organisms that feed on iron, creating slimy deposits, foul odors, and complex treatment challenges beyond simple filtration.
Manganese Contamination Issues
Manganese behaves similarly to iron but creates distinctive black or purple stains and can affect neurological function at high concentrations.
Black or Purple Staining
Manganese can leave behind dark stains on sinks, tubs, toilets, and even freshly washed clothes. These black or purple marks are often one of the first visible signs of manganese contamination in well water.
Metallic Taste
Water containing manganese may have a metallic taste, often compared to iron. This taste can affect drinking water, as well as any food or beverages prepared with it.
Often Found with Iron Contamination
Manganese commonly appears alongside iron in well water, which can intensify staining, taste, and treatment challenges. Testing for both is essential to understand the full scope of contamination.
Health Concerns Above 0.05 mg/L
While manganese is a naturally occurring element, levels above 0.05 mg/L can raise health concerns, especially for infants and long-term exposure. Following recommended guidelines is key to safe water use.
Requires Proper Treatment to Remove
Removing manganese isn’t always simple. Effective treatment often requires specialized filtration systems, as standard water softeners may not be enough to eliminate it completely.
Iron & Manganese Filters
The Gold Standard in Well Water Treatment
Iron and manganese filtration systems are a reliable solution for improving the quality of well water. These systems are specifically designed to target and remove the staining, metallic taste, and odors caused by excess iron and manganese. In many cases, they also help reduce other common contaminants found in private wells, enhancing the overall safety and usability of your water supply.
What Iron & Manganese Filters Remove:
Perfect For:
Families wanting the purest possible drinking water, those with compromised immune systems, and homes with particularly poor water quality.