Table of Contents
What is commonly found in well water?
The EPA lists six major well water contaminants: microbiologicals, heavy metals, organic chemicals, radionuclides, fluoride and nitrates. Microbiological contaminants such as e. Coli bacteria occur naturally in the environment, and are found in soil and human and animal waste.
What is the most important water quality test?
Bacteria Tests One of the most common and most looked for is E. coli bacteria, which comes from fecal matter exposure and can result in serious health issues when consumed. Bacteria testing is essential in determining how safe water is to drink or expose to your skin.
What are symptoms of bad well water?
Visible Signs to Look Out For
- Scale or Scum. Scale buildup or a scummy feeling from water is often associated with calcium or magnesium.
- Unclear or Turbid Water.
- Green Stains on Sinks or Faucets.
- Brown or Red Stains on Sinks, Clothes, or Dishwasher.
- Salty Taste.
- Soapy Taste.
- Chemical Taste.
- Metallic Taste.
What are five things you test water for?
It tests for copper, iron, lead, nitrates, nitrites, bacteria, and also toxins from fertilizers or pesticides—a common concern for well water. Using this kit is simple and fast, as it comes with easy-to-read strips that provide ranges for each tested contaminant.
What can contaminate a well?
Nitrate and nitrite are present in chemical fertilizers, human sewage, and animal waste and fertilizers. They can contaminate a private well through groundwater movement and surface water seepage and water run-off. Once taken into the body, nitrates are converted into nitrites.
What is the most common contaminant in well water?
Common contaminants found in well water, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), include:
- Radon. Radon is commonly found in water but can be hard to detect.
- Arsenic.
- Nitrate.
- Radionuclides.
- Fluoride.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
- Synthetic Organic Contaminants (SOCs)
- Microbial Contamination.
What is 3 types of water quality test?
Testing procedures and parameters may be grouped into physical, chemical, bacteriological and microscopic categories. Physical tests indicate properties detectable by the senses. Chemical tests determine the amounts of mineral and organic substances that affect water quality.
What are the 6 indicators of water quality?
Water quality parameters include a wide range of chemical, physical and biological properties, with six principal indicators: dissolved oxygen, turbidity, pH, bioindicators, nitrate chemicals, and water temperature.
What can contaminate well water?
Potential Sources
- Microorganisms include bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
- Nitrate and nitrite are present in chemical fertilizers, human sewage, and animal waste and fertilizers.
How often should you test your well water?
Typically, well water should be tested at least once a year, but if you’ve recently moved to a home that uses well water, or have noticed a strange taste or smell in your water, you could benefit from a water test. There are a number of contaminants that can be found in well water,…
How often do you need well water testing?
Once Annually. Even if nothing materially changes in your situation,you should still have your water tested once a year.
What should I do if my well water is contaminated?
Do not consume the water unless it is first boiled for at least 15 minutes. Consider using bottled water for drinking and cooking. If bacterial contamination recurs, then it is recommended that you have the well inspected by a reputable well water contractor for defects or code deficiencies and to upgrade your well water supply accordingly.
What do you need to know about well water testing?
Get your water tested annually. Wells are prone to contamination,so regular testing of your water quality is tantamount to your health.