Borehole water is a valuable and sustainable resource, but in Johannesburg, it often contains minerals, sediments, and contaminants that can affect water quality, taste, and safety.
While borehole water may look clear, it frequently requires proper filtration and conditioning before it’s suitable for household or industrial use.
In this article, we’ll break down the common issues found in Johannesburg borehole water, the different types of filters used, and how various filter media and glass filtration materials function in a treatment system.
π Common Water Quality Issues in Johannesburg Boreholes
Borehole water composition varies depending on the area’s geology, but in most parts of Johannesburg and Gauteng, these are the most common issues:
High Iron and Manganese – Causes reddish or black staining on fittings, unpleasant metallic taste, and clogging in pipes.
Sediment and Sand – Often found in boreholes with loose formations or worn pump seals; it can damage appliances and pumps.
Hard Water (High Calcium & Magnesium) – Leads to scale build-up on geysers, kettles, and plumbing systems.
Sulphur and Hydrogen Sulphide Gas – Produces a rotten egg smell and can corrode metal components.
Bacteria and Coliforms – Introduced through surface water contamination, posing health risks if untreated.
Turbidity (Cloudiness) – Caused by suspended particles that make water appear dirty and reduce UV sterilizer effectiveness.
βοΈ Common Borehole Water Filters and Their Functions
A complete borehole water system typically includes multiple filtration stages, each targeting specific contaminants. Here’s a breakdown of the most effective and commonly used filters:
1. Sediment Filter (Polypropylene or Pleated Cartridge)
Purpose: Removes physical particles like sand, dirt, and rust.
Micron Rating: Typically 1–20 microns.
Function: Protects downstream filters and pumps from abrasion and clogging.
Maintenance: Replace every 3–6 months, depending on usage and water quality.
2. Activated Carbon Filter
Purpose: Removes chlorine (for municipal use), odour, colour, and organic chemicals.
Media Used: Coconut shell or bituminous activated carbon.
Function: Adsorbs impurities and improves water taste and clarity.
Maintenance: Replace every 6–12 months or when taste/smell changes.
3. Iron and Manganese Removal Filter
Purpose: Targets dissolved iron and manganese in borehole water.
Media Used:
Birm Media – Oxidizes and traps iron and manganese.
Greensand Plus – Similar to Birm but uses potassium permanganate for regeneration.
Function: Removes metallic taste and prevents staining.
Maintenance: Backwash every few days; replace media every 3–5 years.
4. Softener Filter (Ion Exchange System)
Purpose: Removes hardness minerals (calcium and magnesium).
Media Used: Ion-exchange resin beads.
Function: Exchanges hardness ions for sodium or potassium, preventing limescale buildup.
Maintenance: Regenerate with salt every 1–2 weeks, replace resin every 5–10 years.
5. Multi-Media or Glass Media Filter
Purpose: Removes suspended solids, turbidity, and fine sediment.
Media Layers:
Coarse Gravel (base) – Supports the filter bed and ensures even flow.
Filter Sand – Traps larger particles.
Fine Glass Media or AFM (Activated Filter Media) – Filters down to 1 micron and resists bacterial growth.
Advantages of AFM Glass:
Self-sterilizing surface reduces bacterial contamination.
30–40% better filtration than silica sand.
Longer lifespan (10+ years).
Function: Provides deep filtration and improves overall system clarity.
Maintenance: Regular backwash; replace glass media every 8–10 years.
6. Activated Alumina or Catalytic Media Filters
Purpose: Removes fluoride, arsenic, and other specific contaminants found in some boreholes.
Media Used: Activated alumina or proprietary catalytic resins.
Maintenance: Depends on contaminant load; typically every 12–24 months.
7. UV Sterilizer (Ultraviolet Light)
Purpose: Disinfects water by destroying bacteria, viruses, and pathogens.
Function: Final stage in filtration; ensures microbiological safety.
Maintenance: Clean quartz sleeve every 6 months and replace UV bulb annually.
π§ͺ Recommended Borehole Water Treatment Setup for Johannesburg
Because of the unique mineral and microbial challenges in Johannesburg, an effective system often includes:
Sediment pre-filter
Iron/Manganese removal filter
Multi-media or AFM glass filter
Activated carbon polishing filter
UV sterilizer for disinfection
Optional: A softener or reverse osmosis system for areas with extreme hardness or poor taste.
π Maintenance and Service Guidelines
Filter changes: Every 3–6 months (depending on stage and usage).
Backwashing systems: Every few days or weekly.
UV bulb replacement: Annually.
Water testing: Every 6–12 months to monitor iron, manganese, hardness, and bacteria levels.
Proper servicing ensures that your filtration media continue to perform efficiently, protecting your plumbing system and your health.
β Final Thoughts
Installing a borehole filtration system without proper design or media selection can lead to premature clogging, poor water quality, or wasted investment. Each water source is unique — which is why professional water testing and a customized filtration setup are essential.
At Panthera Technologies, we specialize in borehole water analysis, filtration system design, and installation tailored to Johannesburg’s conditions.
Our systems combine the latest in AFM glass media, multi-stage filtration, and disinfection technologies to ensure safe, reliable water for your home or business.
π¬ Need Expert Borehole Water Treatment Advice?
Contact Panthera Technologies today for a professional water test and system recommendation designed for your area.
π www.pantheratech.co.za
π 072 645 9606
π§ info@pantheratech.co.za
π Proudly serving homeowners, businesses, and estates across South Africa