Air Injection Systems
Adding a system for sulfur removal to an existing water softener setup can effectively address the “rotten egg smell” issue in well water. Here’s how the system works based on the components described:
Air Injector or Air Pump: This component introduces air into the water supply, typically through a process called aeration. Aeration helps in oxidizing dissolved hydrogen sulfide gas into elemental sulfur, which can then be filtered out. The air injector or pump creates tiny air bubbles in the water to facilitate this oxidation process.
Large 20″ R30-BB Sediment Filter: This sediment filter is designed to capture any solid particles or impurities present in the water, including sulfur particles that may form as a result of the aeration process. It ensures that the water entering the air separation tank is free from any debris or sediment.
Air Separation Tank: This tank allows the air that was introduced into the water to separate from the water itself. As the water flows through the tank, the air bubbles rise to the top and are released, while the treated water continues downward. This separation process ensures that only clean, treated water without excess air enters the household plumbing system.
Pre-Oxidizing Iron Removal: In addition to addressing sulfur smell, this system also helps in pre-oxidizing iron in the water. Oxidizing iron converts it into a solid form, making it easier to remove through the existing water softener setup. This dual functionality ensures comprehensive water treatment, addressing both sulfur and iron issues.
Low Maintenance: The system is designed to be low maintenance, with periodic tasks such as changing the prefilter and occasionally cleaning the air injector or pump. This simplicity makes it convenient for homeowners to maintain without extensive upkeep.
For customers with highly alkaline well water above 8.0 pH, a specialized system incorporating both air and chlorine injection can provide effective sulfur removal. This combination system offers an innovative solution for addressing sulfur smell in challenging water conditions.
For the sulfur removal system described to work effectively, certain requirements must be met:
Functional Well Tank and Pump: The well tank and pump must be in good working condition to ensure a steady flow of water with sufficient pressure. A functional well pump with good gallons per minute (GPM) output pressure is essential for the proper operation of the system.
Constant Pressure Variable Speed Well Pump: If you have a newer constant pressure variable speed well pump system, additional considerations come into play. These modern pump systems regulate water pressure more precisely, which can affect the performance of traditional air injectors. In such cases, a more expensive air pump may be required to ensure optimal operation of the sulfur removal system.
Air Pump Installation: If your well system utilizes a constant pressure variable speed pump, it’s likely that a standard air injector may not provide adequate aeration due to the controlled pressure fluctuations. In these situations, an air pump capable of delivering consistent aeration even with variable water pressure is necessary. While more costly, this ensures that the sulfur removal system functions reliably with your specific well pump setup.
By ensuring that these requirements are met, homeowners can effectively implement the sulfur removal system to address the “rotten egg smell” in their well water, providing clean and odor-free water for household use.