Examining Microbial and Chemical Composition of Domestic Groundwater Sources
In the United States, homeowners with private wells are responsible for the testing and treatment of their water supply. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the recommended water tests and maintenance practices for private wells.
Recommended Water Tests for a Private Well
The recommended water tests for a private well generally include:
- Bacteria: Particularly Total Coliform and E. coli, with a recommendation to test at least annually or more frequently if contamination is suspected.
- Common Inorganic Chemicals: These may naturally occur or enter the water from human activities. Testing every 3 to 5 years or as needed, especially for new wells, is recommended.
- Gross Alpha Radiation: This measures radioactivity from elements like uranium and radium in water. Health safety thresholds are specified for this test.
- Other state-specific common contaminants: These can vary depending on location and known local risks. For example, Minnesota recommends testing for five common contaminants found in their region.
Nuisance Conditions or Suspected Contamination
For unusual color, odor, or taste issues, it is recommended to use a professional lab for comprehensive water quality analysis. Testing frequencies and contaminants to be tested should be based on local conditions, potential contamination sources, and well construction.
Monitoring and maintaining well and septic system integrity regularly is crucial to prevent contamination. Communication agreements between property stakeholders regarding responsibility for testing, payment, and treatment actions if contaminants are found are also important.
In areas of shale oil and gas development, a water test prior to drilling activity is a great tool to protect property interests. If suspected contamination from leaking fuel tanks, landfills, or chemical spills, contact the local health department.
Additional Considerations
To test for corrosive water, look for indicators such as lead, copper, pH, corrosion index, and hardness. Some things are difficult to test for, such as hydrogen sulfide and iron bacteria. Hydrogen sulfide is a gas that has a distinct odor of rotten eggs and can escape from water quickly, making a sample unreliable. Iron bacteria forms a reddish brown slime on the inside of pipes and fixtures and is a common, naturally occurring bacteria that can create staining problems.
Lead is a toxic metal that can contaminate water if the water is corrosive and dissolving the pipes and fixtures. The use of lead solder in plumbing was banned in 1986, but many homes still have issues with lead in their plumbing system.
Proper Sampling and Reporting
Careful sample collection is required to test for corrosive water, allowing the water to stand in the pipes overnight or longer before collecting a "first flush" sample. When collecting a water sample, use the sample bottle provided by the lab, follow lab directions for sample collection and handling, and check the lab schedule for sample acceptance.
File water test reports in a safe place as they serve as proof of good well water quality and a defense against future impacts on the well. Keeping annual records of these four tests helps track the onset of problems or trends.
In conclusion, testing should prioritize microbial (bacteria) safety annually, chemical contaminants every few years, and consider additional tests for radiological or nuisance contaminants as indicated by symptoms or local risks. Proper lab use, maintenance, and clear roles for testing responsibility are critical for ensuring safe private well water.
A concerned homeowner in the health-and-wellness sector may find it beneficial to test forradioactivity from elements like uranium and radium in water, as gross Alpha Radiation is part of the recommended water tests for a private well that ensures environmental-science to keep water supply safe. In addition to annual microbial (bacteria) testing, it's crucial to consider testing the water for hydrogen sulfide and iron bacteria for their impact on water quality and property, especially when dealing with staining or unusual issues with color, odor, or taste.
