The WaterGuard®: IOS Iron Ochre Perimeter Drain System
A Common-Sense Solution for Iron Bacteria & Iron Ochre Problems.
In some rare cases, a home with a high level of iron or manganese in the soil and/or groundwater will allow the growth of a microorganism known as iron bacteria. As this bacteria thrives in groundwater, it creates a thick, gelatinous substance known as iron ochre. While this substance is not known to be a health hazard, it can quickly clog a French drain system. This slime emits a foul odor and leaves rust-colored stains on everything it contacts.
How It Works
To test for iron bacteria and iron ochre in your water, try this simple procedure. One morning (when your pipes have sat for a while without being used and “flushed out”), fill a glass with tap water. Let the sample sit quietly for a day, allowing discoloration to occur and sediments to settle to the bottom of the glass.
Visually inspect the glass for any sediment that’s built up. If sediment isn’t present but has a rusty, flour-like appearance, then it’s likely that your water contains iron. If any iron bacteria is found, you see reddish sediment with fluffy, three-dimensional appearance, or sediment that looks like strands of strained cotton fibers, then it’s very possible that you have iron bacteria and iron ochre in your water.
Generally, iron bacteria thrives best in soils that are sandy or high in organic material. If the soils around your home have high loam or clay content, your chances of having iron ochre are lower.
Applications & Benefits
Understanding Iron Ochre & Iron Bacteria Challenges
Impacts on Pipes and Perimeter Drains
Iron ochre can quickly accumulate inside pipes, attaching itself to surfaces and forming reddish sludge or slime layers. This buildup affects plumbing systems, faucets, laundry machine screens, water tanks, and pumps, potentially leading to rapid corrosion of pipes and stainless steel components as the bacteria feeds on these iron-rich surfaces. As the buildup intensifies, chunks of iron ochre break loose, flowing through pipes and creating clogs that can block entire drainage systems in just a few months.
How To Get Started With Your Project
Request Your Free Estimate
Call or fill out our online form. We will contact you to schedule your appointment and provide you with our recommendations and an estimate.
Review Estimate and
Schedule Your Project
Ask any questions, inquire about financing, and get on the schedule to have your work completed.
Enjoy Your Stabilized Home
After the work is done, rest easy knowing you have a warranty and won’t have to deal with foundation problems for years.