When you rely on a private water well for safe drinking water, it’s important to have it regularly tested for any contaminants that could harm your health. There are tests the CDC recommends performing at least once annually to check bacteria, nitrates, pH levels, and dissolved solids. However, sometimes additional tests are needed in between your scheduled inspections. Since water quality is important to protect the health of your family, use the signs below to know if it’s time to call your local well expert. 

How to Tell Your Water Well Needs Testing

1. Noticeable Change in Water Quality

When the taste or color of the water seems different, schedule a water testing. It could be an influx of ions, such as sodium, sulfate, chloride, iron, or manganese. These minerals may cause hard water, which will result in soap buildup on the walls of your shower. You might also notice stains developing on plumbing fixtures or on clothes after doing laundry. While hard water isn’t immediately life-threatening, evidence suggests it may contribute to health problems, and it’s harmful for your plumbing. Changes in odor are also important. If it smells of sulfur, your water may be contaminated by bacteria. A strong scent of chlorine is also worrisome, as this chemical is dangerous in high concentrations. 

2. Known Chemical Spill or Fuel Leak

Regularly inspect the grounds surrounding your water well. Any chemicals or fuels spilled in the vicinity may infiltrate the ground and contaminate your water source. If gasoline, diesel, home heating fuels, paint, solvents, de-icers, oil, or any other liquid you wouldn’t want your family to drink spills onto nearby grounds, be sure to test that volatile organic compounds haven’t seeped into your water.

3. Recurrent Incidents of Gastrointestinal Illness

Coliform bacteria are all around us – in plants, soil, animals, and our own intestines. Most strains are harmless, but a few cause illness. If your family has been suffering from repeated gastrointestinal struggles, schedule a test for the more specific fecal coliform bacteria or E. coli bacteria. If these bacteria have contaminated your water, they may be causing your family’s sickness.  

Ensure your family has clean and pure drinking water by contacting Werner Well & Pump Service LLC. This family business has over 40 years of experience installing and maintaining water wells for New Milford, CT, and surrounding areas. They pride themselves on offering personable, and fast service to keep families safe and healthy. Schedule a well and pump inspection with them today by calling (860) 354-0290. Visit their website to learn more about their well and water treatment services.