Is Your Water Safe?

Millions of people are growing more concerned about the quality of the water flowing from their tap. It seems that we are constantly hearing about water contamination. so, it is natural to begin to wonder, "Is my water safe to drink?"

Today, it's easier than ever to find the answer to that questions. Take charge of your water, and make sure it's safe. A simple water test can help you and your contractor make an informed decision about needed treatment, if any is required. There are several options for independently testing your water:

1. A certified laboratory can provide a detailed analysis of your water. Lab services are generally available by mailing in a sample that you take, or a lab employee may come to your home. consult your local yellow pages for drinking water certified labs.
Cost: about $20 to $150 or more for comprehensive testing.

2. The county health department may be able to test your water supply for a fee. To contact your local health department, consult the city/county government section in the white pages of your phone book. Cost: about $25.

3. Several do-it-yourself tests are now available on the market. You should make sure the test you purchase is simple to use, provides results at home (nothing to mail in), and is laboratory certified for accurate and reliable results. You can get results within 48 hours. You should also make sure the product you buy offers a toll-free number in case you have questions. Cost: from about $5 for individual tests to $30 for a comprehensive test kit.

If you detect problems in your water supply, contact us with the test results so we can make an informed decision together about water treatment options. Most water quality problems can
be solved.


Bacteria in Your Water

As a private well owner, you are in a unique position: You control your own water supply. With this benefit come some responsibilities. You are responsible for the protection of your valuable ground water resource as well as your family's health.

Occasionally, based on a news report or the color or smell of your water, you may wonder about the safety of your water supply. What do you do? Testing your water for the most common well contaminants is the best course of action. Answers to some questions you may have follow.

If I have bacteria in my well, where do they come from?
Many types of bacteria are native or adapted to saturated sediments and rock, and are present in significant numbers in most water supply aquifers, even deep formations. Given time and a route (soil and rock provide plenty of both), bacteria will migrate into and take up housekeeping in an aquifer. "Non-native" coliform bacteria or "protozoa" of potential health concern, such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, are most likely introduced from the surface.

What do we do about this problem?
If possible, do whatever it takes to correct the problem in your existing system. If necessary, install a new well and water inlet system away from the source of contamination.

What's the best way to maintain my good water supply?
You should have your water tested annually for radon, bacteria, and anything else of concern to you, even if you do not perceive a change in your water. Have your water tested by a qualified laboratory. They are listed in your phone book under "Water Testing" or "Laboratories."

The question of whether or not to have your water tested is a serious one that concerns the health of you and your family. If you obtain drinking water from your own well, you alone are responsible for assuring that it is safe.