Why Getting Your Well Water Tested Is Important

If you are a homeowner with a private well on your property, it is critical that you understand the importance of testing your well water in Columbia, TN to ensure its quality. This will help you ensure your water constantly stays safe for use around your home. The results from your test will either reassure you that your drinking water is safe, or provide you with specific problems you can then resolve with the assistance of a well service professional. It also allows you to track changes in your water over time, and determine the effectiveness of existing treatment systems.

The only way you can determine with any reasonable degree of certainty that your water is safe to drink is by having samples sent to be tested at a certified water laboratory. You will not be able to see any parasites, bacteria, viruses or harmful chemicals that are present in the water, because almost all of them are invisible to the naked eye. But just because you can’t see them doesn’t mean they’re not serious—many of these contaminants can result in some severe symptoms and sicknesses.

In some cases, chemical contaminants in a water source will cause long-term health problems over the course of many years. By maintaining a good water testing schedule, you can also prevent yourself from being at a higher risk of developing some serious conditions, such as cancer.

Tests to perform

Which tests should you perform when working with a well water service or local water laboratory? Here’s a quick overview of some of the most common and helpful options:

• Water potability: This test will include analysis of the water in an attempt to locate coliform bacteria, total dissolved solids, hardness, iron, manganese, fluoride, sulphate, nitrates and sodium, while also testing the pH level. This is the best overall test for homeowners to perform.
• Total dissolved solids: Total dissolved solids are inorganic substances that have dissolved in the water, like chloride, sulphate or sodium. A high TDS count can reduce water palatability.
• Ions: Ions like chloride, manganese, sodium and iron can have a negative impact on the taste or smell of water.
• Coliform bacteria: The presence of coliform bacteria can show there are microorganisms in the water that can result in sickness.
• Nitrates: Nitrates are contaminants frequently found in groundwater that can affect the ability of the blood to carry oxygen. This makes nitrate-laden water particularly dangerous for newborn children.
• Fluoride: Fluoride is essential as a nutrient in water and is implemented into municipal water systems, but in too-high levels it can cause dental problems.
• Sulfate: Excessive sulfate can result in gastrointestinal distress, usually producing a laxative effect.
• Other tests: There are other types of tests that can be performed as necessary, usually if it is suspected there is a particular contaminant in the area’s groundwater.

Testing should occur once a year in private wells, and more frequently if the water comes from shallow wells or surface water sources, as those sources are more likely to be contaminated.

For more information about well water testing in Columbia, TN, contact Action Electric Motor & Pump Repair today.

Categorised in: Well Water Testing