Well Water Sampling
How Often Do I Need to Test my Private Well?
If you get your water from a private well or spring, it is recommended that you test regularly.
Additional Reasons to Test Your Water:
- Unusual smell, taste, or color changes
- Work has been done to the well head, casing or pump
- There was flooding around wellhead
- Individuals who consume the water are pregnant or under 1 year old
Bacterial Test (recommended every year): Total Coliform and E.Coli bacteria are found in the environment and feces (poop) from humans and animals. Some bacteria like coliform may not make people sick, but E.Coli can cause severe illness. The presence of any bacteria means your water source is being contaminated by surface water. Safe water sources should test negative for any type of bacteria.
Inorganic or Metals Testing (recommended every five years): Test usually includes: nitrate, nitrite, arsenic, chloride, copper, fluoride, hardness, iron, lead, manganese, sodium and strontium. These elements are common in groundwater and can cause nuisance problems, like color or taste, or negative health effects.
Pesticide Test (recommended rarely): This test is only recommended when there is a reason to suspect contamination, for example, if your well test for high nitrate/nitrite. Tests may evaluate a variety of different herbicides and insecticides used on agricultural fields, gardens, pets, and in homes.
Helpful fact sheets:
- Coliform & E.Coli Contaminated water fact sheet
- High Nitrates in drinking water fact sheet
- Testing Private well water fact sheet
Additional Information: