Water well services can provide direct, consistent access to clean, natural groundwater. While wells can last for several years with relatively little maintenance required, periodic testing is essential. If you have recently moved into a home with a water well, use this guide to learn why testing is necessary and what to look for. 

A Guide to Well Water Testing 

Why You Should Test 

Chemicals, bacteria, heavy metals, and other contaminants from groundwater runoff, septic systems, and other sources can contaminate the water supply. Testing is crucial to identify hazardous pollutants and remove them before your family’s health is jeopardized. A well water services technician can also test for factors affecting hardness and taste. 

What to Test For 

If the well isn’t cleaned regularly or sealed properly, bacteria, such as coliform, can develop. Also, pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals can enter through rainwater runoff.

High levels of nitrate, which come from fecal matter or decaying plants, can cause methemoglobinemia, a severe blood disorder. Sulfates can also be dangerous and affect the gastrointestinal tract, while nitrates are harmful for children and babies.

The water well service technician can also test the pH levels and sodium and sulfate ions, affecting taste. They may also check the hardness, or level of hard minerals, which can impact plumbing. 

When & How to Test 

You can purchase kits at a hardware store online. However, these DIY kits are not 100% accurate, and most do not test for all contaminants. For this reason, it is advisable to have a water well service professional perform comprehensive testing at least once a year.

You may need to test more than once a year in certain circumstances. For example, if the area has flooded, you may need to test for parasites, microbes, and viruses that could have run off from lakes, streams, or rainwater. Or, if you’ve had trouble with the sewer system, you’ll need to ensure fecal matter and wastewater have not infiltrated the water supply. 

What to Do If Contaminants Are Found 

A water well service professional can determine the best course of action to take depending on the particular contaminants found. If the well is contaminated with bacteria, for example, they may recommend chlorine to eliminate it.

To reduce hardness, they may suggest a softener to remove hard minerals like calcium and magnesium. To remove iron and sulfates, which can affect taste and odor, a technician may recommend oxidation filtration. 

If you need water well services in Livingston County, NY, turn to Dansville Water Well Inc. Whether you need water well drilling, maintenance, repairs, or testing, you can count on this team of exceptional service professionals. With over 40 years of experience in well drilling services, they are some of the area’s most knowledgeable experts. Call (585) 335-3356 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to learn more about the range of services they offer.