Description
When water has not been tested in several years, it’s best to start with a Baseline Comprehensive Water Quality Test. The Baseline Comprehensive Service involves a water quality specialist coming to the home and includes a full inspection of the well and supporting infrastructure and treatment system, and water sample collection. The comprehensive water quality test includes testing for the standard water quality parameters including Bacteria (Total Coliform and E.coli), Nitrates and Nitrites, 13 metals and minerals including Lead, Arsenic, Magnesium, Calcium, Copper, Iron, Manganese, as well as eight (8) physical characteristics including: pH, Color, Odor, and Hardness. The comprehensive test also includes Radon in Water testing and testing for 60 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs, man-made contaminants). The water sample(s) are delivered to a state certified lab for analysis. SafeWell evaluates the test results, assigns a score for the water quality, and provides guidance for next steps and any corrective action that may be needed.
Health Implications
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), State and local health officials all recommend testing well water at least annually. Particularly if records of original water quality testing are not available, or the well water has not been tested in several years, it is important to have a thorough, comprehensive water quality analysis completed. Most public drinking water suppliers are required to test their water source many times per month, as well monitor and treat the water to ensure it meets federal, state and local contaminant limits. As a private well owner you are solely responsible for the quality of the water delivered to your home.
REGULAR TESTING IS IMPORTANT TO:
- identify existing problems
- ensure water is suitable for the intended use, especially if used for drinking by humans and animals
- track water quality changes over time
The quality of a water source may change over time, even suddenly. Changes can go unnoticed as the water may look, smell, and taste the same. Contaminants in water can have a direct impact on health, as well as cause problems in well components, plumbing and water-using appliances.
What to Expect
The Baseline Comprehensive Service is performed by SafeWell Water Quality Specialists. The following is the service delivery process:
- Schedule an appointment with SafeWell
- Water Quality Specialist arrives at your home
- Completes an inspection of well and supporting infrastructure
- Collects appropriate water samples
- Samples are delivered to state certified lab for analysis
- Lab results are evaluated and scored
- Next steps (if any) are identified and documented
- Report is prepared and emailed
- Follow-up phone discussion is completed