What Tests Should Be Done on Well Water?
For millions of Americans, wells are a reliable and essential source of water, especially in rural or off-grid areas where city water systems aren’t available. In fact, over 43 million people in the U.S. rely on private wells for their water needs. While wells offer independence and convenience, they also come with the responsibility of ensuring water safety and quality.
What Is Well Water?
Well water is groundwater that’s accessed by drilling into an underground aquifer — a layer of permeable rock or sediment that holds water. Unlike municipal water, well water doesn’t go through a centralized treatment facility before it reaches your faucet. That means it’s up to the well owner to ensure the water is safe for everyday use. Without regular testing, well water can carry hidden risks that go unnoticed.
Why Well Water Testing Is Crucial
Because well water comes straight from the ground, it can be exposed to a wide range of contaminants. These include microbes like bacteria and viruses, naturally occurring substances like arsenic or radon, and human-related pollutants such as fertilizers, pesticides, and septic waste. Without proper testing, you could unknowingly expose your household to health risks. Regular testing by a certified water testing company is essential to safeguard your family’s health.
Common Well Water Tests You Need
The types of tests you need for your well depend on your location, usage, and surrounding environment. However, several core tests are highly recommended for anyone using well water for drinking, cooking, or bathing. These tests assess whether the water meets safety standards and can reveal early warning signs of contamination. Here are the most important ones:
- Total Coliform Test: This test detects coliform bacteria, which are commonly found in the environment and in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. A high coliform count signals a higher risk of harmful bacteria entering your water supply.
- Fecal Coliform Test: This test specifically looks for fecal bacteria, which can cause severe illnesses like diarrhea, dysentery, and even meningitis. A positive result means your water is at high risk and needs immediate treatment.
- pH Level Test: The pH test measures the acidity or alkalinity of your water. Low pH can corrode pipes, potentially leaching metals like lead or copper into your drinking water.
- Nitrate Test: Nitrate contamination often comes from septic systems, agricultural runoff, or animal waste. High nitrate levels can be especially dangerous for infants and pregnant women, making this test a critical part of well water monitoring.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Test:
VOCs are industrial chemicals that can seep into groundwater, particularly near factories, gas stations, or landfills. Testing for compounds like benzene, toluene, and carbon tetrachloride is crucial if you live near industrial sites.
Additional Tests for Comprehensive Well Safety
Beyond these standard tests, additional testing for substances like sodium, chloride, sulfate, hydrogen sulfide, and total dissolved solids can help you get a full picture of your well water quality. These tests can alert you to issues like salty taste, odor problems, or mineral buildup, which may require specialized treatment systems. Tailoring your testing to your specific environment ensures that your well stays safe and reliable year-round.
Schedule Your Well Water Test Today
At Mosman Well Works, we offer professional, certified water testing services to help you keep your well water clean, safe, and healthy. Don’t wait until a problem surfaces — contact us today to schedule your well water test and get a personalized quote. Protect your family’s health with expert testing you can trust!
