Testing your well water periodically is important to ensure that contaminants are not compromising the water. Nothing is more important than the health of your household, and the best way to ensure continued water quality and safety is to test the well as needed. The well installation professionals at Frederick Drilling Co. & Sons, located in Tylersburg, PA, share their expertise on how frequently well testing should take place.

A Guide to Well Testing Explained by Well Installation Experts

What Is the Testing Frequency?

It’s recommended to test a private well before you purchase the home. Follow up every spring to test for contaminants or mechanical problems.  Changes in water quality can occur slowly, so it’s important to remain diligent and test annually.  The test should include samples for bacteria, nitrate, and nitrite because they are toxic and can affect your health rapidly.

If you live near heavy construction or chemical plants, you should test more frequently. Additionally, if you had well repairs recently or new construction, bacterial contamination is possible, so testing should be done every six months. If there is a change in the water quality or appearance those conditions would also warrant frequent testing. A qualified technician can schedule regular testing in the event of any concerns.

What Other Chemicals Are Tested?

Under normal conditions, the technician will test for chloride, arsenic fluoride, iron, lead, sodium, and other chemicals every three to five years. Radon and uranium should also be checked every three to five years. If the level of chemicals in your well water exceed state and federal health and safety standards, you will need to have a water treatment system installed. A professional can help you go over the best options for treating the well.

Testing your well water is a necessary process to determine its safety. Contact the specialists at Frederick Drilling Co. & Sons to discuss your concerns. They can walk you through the process, or provide well cleaning and pump services for your existing well. Call (814) 744-8581 or visit their website for additional information about their well installation and maintenance services.