Well Water Testing To Protect The Household's Health

By Marissa Velazquez


In many locations, homes require wells to meet their needs. Although the EPA requires that public supplies be tested to ensure the match the standards that have been established, such procedures are not required of private wells located in the USA. Well water testing is beneficial in ensuring that the home has a safe supply to meet occupant needs.

Several tests are used as determiners of the quality of the supply along with the presence of contaminates. Indicator strains of bacteria and chemicals, which do not necessarily cause illness, are checked. Their presence indicates the supply may have been contaminated by germs, including those in raw sewage that can cause illness.

Bacteria from the digestive systems of other warm blooded animals and humans is of grave concern. Labs often perform a total coliform test to indicate the presences of these bacteria in the submitted sample. If these counts return large numbers, there is a greater chance of disease causing organisms in the supply that can bring harm to those who consume the product.

From the microbiological standpoint, the more specific E. Coli test is often used. Positive E. Coli tests indicate contamination by fecal material. While the indicator E. Coli that grow on the microbiologist plates are generally harmless, there is a greater chance of germs that do cause diseases such as hepatitis, diarrhea or dysentery are present. This indicator strand of E. Coli should not be confused with a more harmful strain often on the news.

In order to test the level of acids or bases in the sample, the lab often tests the pH. This level affects both taste and looks of the water. Neutral samples have a pH of 7. If this number is too high or too low, heavy metals can leach out of the pipes into the drinking supply. In addition to damaging the pipes, continuing to drink the liquid could make one ill.

While nitrates are found in many types of food, they should not be in your drinking supply as they can make you and others sick. Sources of nitrates include animal waste, septic tanks, flooded sewers and polluted storm water. Fertilizers and runoff from farming can also affect the well's quality. The natural geographic features surrounding wells can increase nitrate levels.

Volatile organic compounds are a problem in some regions. They are generally the result of industrial pollution or fuel spills. The exact VOCs for which the sample should be tested will vary by location. Check with the local heath department or testing lab for further information.

Other health concerns are also location specific. These could include chemicals such as radium, mercury or arsenic. You may live in an area where wells need to be tested for specific germs to ensure safety for the family.

Generally, homeowners should submit samples to a lab for well water testing annually. Samples should also be submitted when there is a difference in quality of if land disturbances have occurred. With proper testing, you ensure your supply remains healthy for the family.




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