Is bacteria a problem with activated carbon systems?
A. Yes and no. We have tested many of our Backwashing Carbon Filters for bacteria counts over the years and have not found higher levels after the systems. Since the system backwashes with chlorinated water, bacteria growth is retarded. For this reason, non-backwashing tank-type carbon filter systems should not be used. However if the chlorine levels are very low in the incoming water, then a UV sterilizer should be used to disinfect the water after the Backwashing Carbon Filter. Q.