Bacteria can occasionally be present in Perth's water supply, despite treatment processes designed to eliminate these contaminants. While Water Corporation maintains rigorous quality standards, understanding bacterial risks remains important for homeowners concerned about their water quality.
This page is part of our comprehensive guide to water contaminants in Perth. For an overview of Perth's water sources and treatment process, see our guide to Perth's drinking water supply.
Understanding Bacteria in Perth's Water
Bacteria can enter Perth's water supply through several pathways. While Water Corporation treatment facilities use chlorination to eliminate most harmful microorganisms, certain factors can compromise this protection:
- Ageing infrastructure and pipe breaks can introduce contaminants after treatment
- Biofilm formation inside household plumbing systems
- Rainwater tanks without proper maintenance or treatment
- Bore water sources that may lack adequate disinfection
The most common bacteria found in water systems include coliform bacteria, which serve as indicator organisms for possible contamination, and potentially harmful varieties like E. coli, Legionella, and various strains of Pseudomonas. While Water Corporation's treatment generally keeps these organisms in check, household plumbing systems can sometimes harbour bacterial growth.
Potential Risks of Bacteria in Perth's Water
The presence of bacteria in your home's water supply poses several concerns:
Health Impacts:
- Gastrointestinal illnesses with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea
- Respiratory infections (particularly from Legionella in shower aerosols)
- Skin and eye infections from certain bacterial species
- Increased risks for vulnerable populations including young children, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals
Home System Impacts:
- Biofilm formation inside pipes and appliances
- Unpleasant odours in water (often described as "rotten egg" smell)
- Reduced efficiency of water heaters and other appliances
- Potential staining and discolouration of fixtures
Recommended Filtration Solutions
Best Option: All-in-One UV Sterilisation System with Multi-Stage Filtration
This comprehensive protection system features a pump, 3-stage filtration, and crucial UV sterilisation technology. The system effectively eliminates 99.9% of bacteria and other microorganisms through its powerful UV technology. The lockable cabinet with convenient access doors makes maintenance simple, while the optional mains/rainwater changeover switch provides flexibility for different water sources.
Key features:
- Powerful UV sterilisation eliminates 99.9% of bacteria and viruses
- 3-stage filtration process removes sediment and improves taste
- Integrated pump ensures consistent water pressure
- Weatherproof cabinet for indoor or outdoor installation
- Simple maintenance with easy cartridge replacement

Better Option: UV Undersink System + Whole-House Filtration
This powerful combination provides both point-of-use and whole-house protection. The undersink drinking water system uses ultraviolet technology to kill 99.9% of bacteria without chemicals, connecting directly to your existing mixer tap. The whole-house filtration system adds protection that reduces sediment, chlorine, bad taste and odour throughout your home.
Key features:
- UV technology specifically targets bacteria at drinking water points
- Whole-house filtration improves water quality throughout the home
- Chemical-free disinfection process
- Direct connection to your existing tap
- Comprehensive protection approach for drinking and household water

Good Option: Rainwater to Mains Whole House System
This whole house system provides effective bacterial protection with an additional filtration stage for chemical reduction. This system is ideal for homes using rainwater tanks, featuring dual sediment cartridges and a carbon block filter to improve taste and odour while eliminating harmful bacteria.
Key features:
- Automatically switches between rainwater and mains water sources
- Dual sediment filtration for improved clarity
- Carbon filtration to remove chemicals and improve taste
- UV sterilisation for bacterial control
- Ideal for homes with rainwater harvesting systems

Concerned about bacteria in your water? Call us at (08) 9315 5545 or book a free consultation to discuss filtration solutions!
How We Can Help
As Perth's water quality experts, we provide comprehensive solutions for bacterial contamination concerns:
- Free water quality assessment to identify potential bacterial issues in your home's water
- Expert installation of filtration systems tailored to your specific needs
- Professional advice on maintaining healthy water systems throughout your home
- Ongoing maintenance service to ensure continued protection and peak system performance
Our team of fully licensed plumbers specialises in water quality solutions, with particular expertise in addressing bacterial contamination through appropriate filtration technology and plumbing improvements.
Protecting Your Home from Bacterial Contamination
While Perth's Water Corporation provides a good baseline of protection against harmful bacteria, additional filtration at home offers important safeguards for your family's health and your plumbing systems. Properly installed UV sterilisation and multi-stage filtration systems can effectively eliminate bacterial risks and provide peace of mind regarding your water quality.
Questions about bacteria filtration? Call us at (08) 9315 5545 or book an appointment online for personalised advice.
FAQs About Bacteria in Perth's Water
Signs may include cloudy appearance, unpleasant odours, slime formation in fixtures, or unexplained gastrointestinal issues. However, most bacteria aren't visible to the naked eye. We recommend professional testing if you suspect contamination.
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(08) 9315 5545
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3/52 Roberts St, Osborne Park WA 6017