Iron Ochre Treatment & Water Jetting
Iron ochre is a dense, orange-brown, gelatinous sludge that forms when naturally occurring iron in the soil combines with iron bacteria in the presence of oxygen and water. Commonly found in oxygen-rich sandy or silty soils, iron ochre develops as iron in groundwater oxidizes inside drainage systems. The bacteria feed on the oxidized iron, creating a thick, rust-colored buildup that gradually hardens over time. As it accumulates, iron ochre can completely clog French drains, weeping tiles, sump pumps, pits, and discharge lines.
Why It’s a Problem
As the sludge accumulates inside drainage pipes and corrugated weeping tiles, it restricts water flow and eventually causes blockages. When drainage systems cannot move water away from the foundation properly, moisture begins collecting around the home, which can lead to:
- Increased basement humidity and poor indoor air quality
- Accelerated mold and mildew growth
- Basement flooding and costly structural water damage
Prevention and Maintenance
Unfortunately, there are no known methods to stop the formation of iron ochre, and research shows that it cannot be fully eliminated.
Clenit is a professional-grade solution designed specifically for managing iron ochre in sump and drainage systems. While it does not eliminate the problem entirely, it can significantly reduce buildup and help prevent clogging of foundation drainage systems when used as part of a regular maintenance program
Homeowners can apply Clenit as a treatment product to help control iron ochre accumulation. It is safe for groundwater and the environment, and it becomes inert after a short period of time.
Recommended Use
Administer treatment every 2–3 months. For initial treatment, use approximately ½ bottle.
Water Jetting
In Southwestern Ontario, iron ochre is especially common in areas with high subsurface iron content, elevated water tables, and well-aerated soils. Water jetting is often required to clear drainage and sump lines affected by iron ochre, sometimes as frequently as twice a year when buildup becomes severe. Where these conditions are common, routine high-pressure jetting is often necessary to keep systems functioning properly and to remove buildup before it hardens and causes blockages.
Benefits of Water Jetting
- Removes heavy sludge and restores drainage efficiency
- Breaks apart stubborn iron ochre blockages
- Cleans deep inside drain lines without excavation
- Helps prevent costly drainage repairs or system replacement