Water Testing
Know Your Well Water is Safe to Drink
Water Testing
Do you need to test your well water?
Whether you are purchasing a home or an existing homeowner, it is important to have your well water tested. The National Ground Water Association (NGWA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend well owners test their water at least annually for bacteria, nitrates, and any contaminants of local concern. More frequent testing should be considered if:
- There is a change in the taste, odor, or appearance of the well water, or if a problem occurs such as a broken well cap, inundation by floodwaters, or a new contamination source
- The well has a history of bacterial contamination
- The septic system has recently malfunctioned
- Family members or house guests have recurrent incidents of gastrointestinal illness
- An infant is living in the home, or
- To monitor the efficiency and performance of home water treatment equipment.
It is very important to realize that your well water can be clear, odorless, and taste great yet be unsafe to drink. Water testing is the only way to ensure that your water is safe to drink.
content courtesy WellOwner.org
Dangers of Poor Water Quality
According to the EPA, there are two categories of water contaminants, primary contaminants and secondary contaminants. Primary contaminants have a direct affect on your health and can result in health issues like:
- Respiratory diseases
- Cancer
- Abdominal diseases such as IBS and Crohn’s Disease
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Neurological conditions
Secondary contaminants have more aesthetic affects like odor, taste, and color.
Types of Water Tests
Standard Water Test
When 1st Step Home Inspection performs a well water test, we will collect three water samples from the kitchen sink and bathtub. These samples are then transported directly to the lab for analysis.
The lab will perform tests for levels of bacteria, lead, pH, nitrates, nitrites, chloride, sulfate, phosphate, iron and fluoride. Tests will also be performed for turbidity and hardness.