To disinfect a well, one should mix and pour directly into the well:

Mixing one quart of bleach in five gallons of water is a standard practice for disinfecting a well. This dilution ratio is effective for ensuring that the bleach achieves the necessary concentration to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens commonly found in well water without leaving excessive residual chemicals. The combination creates a strong enough solution to sanitize the water system effectively, while still being manageable for the environment and safe for subsequent water use after proper flushing.

Once the bleach solution is added to the well, it should be circulated throughout the entire water system—including the pipes and faucets—to ensure adequate disinfection. The process generally requires allowing the solution to sit for a period of time before flushing the system to remove any chlorine residue, ensuring that the water is safe and clean for consumption afterward. This approach provides a practical balance between efficacy and safety in disinfecting water supplies.