How Often Should I Test My Well Water?

Private wells are a source of drinking water for more than 15 million Americans. EPA itself doesn't regulate the quality of water of private wells, but the state rules might deal with it. Whatever the case, regular water testing of drinking water is highly crucial.

There might be various solids dissolved in the water. Besides that, there might be nitrates and harmful bacteria like coliform bacteria in your water. All of these and the PH levels need to be tested for in the annual water testing. Besides that, water needs to be also checked for the contaminants. According to the local area, contaminants might vary. To get a better idea about them, you can contact the local health department.

If your water shows one or more signs from the list below, it indicates that your water needs to get tested more often:

·         The well water tastes, smell or looks slightly different

·         The well cap breaks and there is contamination due to a new source, 

·         In the past, well water has been contaminated by bacteria.

·         There was a fault in the septic system

·         There were cases of Gastrointestinal illnesses in your family or guests

·         Your home has old aged people or infants 

·         In your local area, there have been problems related to groundwater or drinking water 

Only a state-certified laboratory should be consulted for getting the water tested. Even in some areas, free well testing for private wells might be done by the local health department.

The concentration of elements or materials that you want you to get tested should be a part of the test results. Besides that, if any substance whose concentration exceeds the standard value suggested by national primary or secondary regulations, it should also be mentioned in the results. Visit EPA's website to check the EPA regulations regarding the national primary drink water.

Treatment will be needed if any element's amount is more than the health standards. According to the type of element and its quantity, different treatment methods might be adopted. There might be a requirement for different treatment techniques like disinfectants, filters, and various onsite treatment methods. If the situation is beyond control, then a new well or other water source needs to be sought.

Feel free to contact us at ‪(760) 440-8520‬ if you are unsure about which treatment you should go for.