How to Get Clean Drinking Water from Your Borehole

Installing a borehole is only the first step. Here’s how to ensure the water you draw is clean, safe, and ready for daily use.

Is Borehole Water Safe to Drink?

Not always. While borehole water is sourced underground, it may contain bacteria, heavy metals, or sediment that can affect your health and plumbing. Proper testing and filtration are essential to make it safe for human consumption.

Review safety guidelines from the Department of Water and Sanitation.

Step 1: Test Your Borehole Water

Before drinking any borehole water, send a sample to an accredited lab. Tests usually check for:

pH and mineral content
Bacteria (e.g., E. coli and coliform)
Nitrates, iron, and manganese
Turbidity and suspended solids

One Touch Pump & Drilling can assist with professional water testing services across KwaZulu-Natal.

Step 2: Install a Proper Filtration System

Based on test results, install filters to remove unwanted substances. Options include:

Sediment filters: Removes sand, rust, and debris
Activated carbon: Improves taste and removes odour
UV sterilisation: Destroys bacteria and viruses
Reverse osmosis (RO): High-purity filtration for drinking water

We install trusted brands that meet South African water standards. Learn more from Water Africa.

Step 3: Maintain the System

Replace filters as recommended (every 6–12 months)
Service UV lights annually
Flush your tank and clean inline strainers
Schedule annual system checks for flow rate and water safety

For maintenance tips, visit JoJo Tank’s maintenance guides.

Common Myths About Borehole Water

“It comes from the ground, so it’s safe.” → False – all water should be tested first.
“Filters are only needed for muddy water.” → False – bacteria and chemicals are invisible.
“Municipal water is always better.” → Not necessarily – filtered borehole water can be cleaner.

Need Help Getting Drinkable Borehole Water?

One Touch Pump & Drilling offers end-to-end solutions from water testing to advanced filtration systems. Whether you’re in Durban, Hilton, Howick or rural KZN — we help you get clean, reliable water from your borehole.