I have well water. What should I test for, and how often should I have it tested?

This is a common question we are often asked. The tests you decide to have done on your well water depend on your goals and whether you are primarily interested in health-related contaminants that might be present, or if you are more interested in finding out about aesthetic issues such as stains or odors. For additional information, private well owners should consult with their local health department for further insights and resources on water quality beyond standard tests.

There are a large number of water testing labs and well water test kits available on the market for home water well owners. If you already know your water is safe but are trying to address a specific well water issue, such as staining, odors, or corrosion, there are now outstanding home well water test kits available to analyze your water in the comfort of your own home and provide instant results. Contact your local health or environmental departments for assistance with well water testing and safety.

So Why Must I Analyze My Well Water?

Public community water systems regularly test their water supplies to ensure the water is safe to drink. However, there is often no requirement to test private water wells, except when they are first drilled or the pump is changed. The fact is, that you are in charge of making sure your own water is safe. The cost of well water testing can vary; some counties offer free testing while others may charge varying prices depending on the laboratory and specific tests performed.

Most private wells provide a clean, reliable supply of water; nonetheless, contaminants can pollute private wells, and regrettably, you can’t see, smell, or taste most of them. As a result, you need to analyze your well water on a regular basis. The final decision on what to test your water for should be dependent on the types of land uses in close proximity to your well.

What Tests Should Be Carried Out?

The tests you choose depend on your water source, nearby land use, and whether you are addressing aesthetic concerns (such as staining or odors) or potential health risks. Here’s a comprehensive list of what to test and why:

1. General Mineral Analysis + Coliform Bacteria

This is a great place to start for most well owners.

• It should be performed annually, or anytime your water’s appearance, taste, or odor changes.
• Home well water test kits or certified labs can be used.
• This analysis typically includes calcium, magnesium, chloride, nitrate, potassium, and sodium, along with metals like iron and manganese.
• Results help identify corrosiveness, potential for scale formation, or sources of staining.
• If your water has color issues or brown staining, a tannin test may also be recommended.

2. Coliform Bacteria

• Found in soil, plants, surface water, and the intestines of warm-blooded animals.
• Associated with E. coli, which can signal fecal contamination.
• These bacteria can enter well casings through insects or poor well construction.
• Private wells should be tested for bacteria at least once per year.
• While common, bacteria are just one of many possible contaminants.

3. Lead and Copper

• Testing should be done on “first draw” water (after sitting at least 6 hours).
• These metals often come from corroded pipes.
• Flushing the faucet for a few minutes can lower levels, but that’s not a long-term solution.
• High levels can pose serious health risks, especially for children and pregnant women.

4. Nitrate

• Formed when nitrogen from fertilizers, manure, septic waste, or decaying vegetation enters the water supply.
• Especially dangerous for infants under 6 months, causing methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome), which can be fatal.
• All households should test for nitrate at least once, and regularly if near agricultural fields or fertilizer production.
• Pregnant women and babies drinking the water require special caution.

5. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Solvents, Gas, and Oil

• VOCs include household and industrial chemicals, fuel oil, and gasoline.
• Some VOCs are relatively benign; others are linked to cancer, birth defects, and reproductive problems.
• Common sources: leaking tanks, landfills, industrial spills.
• Test your well at least once if it’s within one mile of a gas station, farm tank, dry cleaner, or landfill.

6. Pesticides and Herbicides

• These chemicals can enter well water through field runoff, spills, and improper disposal.
• Long-term consumption may increase your risk of cancer or other serious conditions.
• If your well is near crop fields or pesticide storage areas, test at least once a year.
• Even if you’re unsure of local pesticide use, a single test is a good precautionary measure.

Introduction to Well Water Testing

Well water testing is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water for private well owners. As a private well owner, it is crucial to recognize the importance of regular water testing to safeguard your family’s health. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that private well owners test their water at least once a year for common contaminants, including coliform bacteria, nitrates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Regular testing helps identify potential issues early, allowing you to take corrective actions before they become serious health hazards. Factors such as nearby agricultural activities, industrial sites, and the natural soil composition can all impact water quality, making it essential to remain vigilant and proactive in testing your well water.

Importance of Drinking Water Quality

Drinking water quality is a critical aspect of public health, and private well owners have a responsibility to ensure their water supply is safe for consumption. Contaminated drinking water can cause a range of health problems, including diarrhea, vomiting, and even life-threatening illnesses like blue baby syndrome.

Private well owners can take steps to protect their family’s health by properly maintaining their well system, testing their water regularly, and addressing any potential problems promptly.

Regular water testing can help identify contaminants such as lead, arsenic, and parasites, which can have serious health implications, especially for children and infants. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure that your drinking water remains safe and healthy for your family.

Sources of Contamination

Various sources, including surface water, soil, and human activities, can contaminate private well water. Contaminants can enter the well system through cracks in the well casing, poor well construction, or nearby sources of pollution. Common contaminants found in well water include coliform bacteria, nitrates, VOCs, and total dissolved solids.

Private well owners should be aware of the potential sources of contamination in their area and take steps to protect their well system. This can include properly maintaining their well, testing their water regularly, and addressing any potential problems promptly.

Understanding the local environment and potential risks can help you take the necessary precautions to keep your water supply safe.

Water Testing Procedures

Water testing procedures involve collecting water samples from the well and sending them to a state-certified laboratory for analysis. Private well owners can collect water samples themselves or hire a professional to do so. The laboratory will test the water for various contaminants, including coliform bacteria, nitrates, and VOCs.

The test results will indicate the level of contaminants in the water and provide recommendations for treatment or remediation. Private well owners should ensure that their water is tested by a state-certified laboratory to ensure accurate and reliable results.

By following proper water testing procedures, you can gain a clear understanding of your water quality and take appropriate actions to address any issues.

References

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2023). Private drinking water wells. EPA. https://www.epa.gov/privatewells