Water Inspection

A great start for a water test is to download a copy of your county’s website of last year’s water tests.  It’s most likely a downloadable file in a .pdf

This is useful to measure the readings from their files to the actual home water readings.

Drinking clean water helps to prevent many diseases.  Most people in the United States receive water from a community water system that provides its customers with an annual water quality report, also known as a Consumer Confidence Report.  Normally, you will receive it with your water bill once a year in July. The report contains information on contaminants found, possible health effects, and the water’s source. If you do not receive a report, contact your water company for this  Information.

Private Water Supplies If your drinking water does not come from a public water system, or you get your drinking water from a household well, you alone are responsible for assuring that it is safe. For this reason, routine testing for a few of the most common contaminants is highly recommended. Even if you currently have a safe, pure water supply, regular testing can be valuable because it establishes a record of water quality. This record is helpful in solving any future problems and in obtaining compensation if someone damages your water supply.

pH: pH test strips and color disk tests are widely available. More expensive, higher-tech options include electrode-based pH meters. pH is a measure of hydrogen ion activity, which means that it tells us how acidic or basic the water is.

Is someone in your household pregnant or nursing an infant? Are there unexplained illnesses in your family? Do you notice a change in water taste, odor, color, or clarity?  You may need to test more than once a year.

How frequently should I test?
Test water every year for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and  PH levels, especially if you have a new well, or have replaced or repaired pipes,  pumps, or the good casing.

Do you expect to have a new baby in the household?
Test for nitrate in the early months of pregnancy, before bringing an infant home, and again during the first six months of the baby’s life. It is best to test for nitrate during the spring or summer following a rainy period.

Do you have taste, odor, and staining issues?
Test for sulfate, chloride, iron, manganese, hardness, and corrosion, and every three years. If you suspect other contaminants, test for these also.

Have you had a chemical or fuel spill or leak near your water supply?
Test your well for chemical contaminants, such as volatile organic compounds. Tests can be expensive; limit them to possible problems specific to your situation. Local
experts can tell you about possible impurities in your area.