What tests should I have done on my well water? How often should I have them done?

Once each year you should test for coliform bacteria, pH, and total dissolved solids. These tests should be conducted during the spring or summer, following a rainy period. Coliform bacteria tests should also be conducted after replacing pipes or after installing a new pump.

Every 3 years you should test for nitrates, sulfate, chloride, fluoride, iron, manganese, hardness, and corrosion index. Test for the presence of lead if your home plumbing contains lead material or brass fittings.

Where you live or what you are living next to can affect the quality of your water. If someone in your family becomes ill or the taste, odor or color of your water changes, your supply may be contaminated.

Below is a list of situations that deserve attention. 

Condition or nearby activities                               Recommended test



Recurrent gastrointestinal illness      Coliform bacteria

Household plumbing contains lead        pH, lead, copper

Indoor radon                            Radon

Scaly residue or soaps don't lather     Hardness

Is a water softener needed?             Hardness, manganese, iron

Stains on plumbing fixtures or laundry  Iron, copper, manganese

Objectional taste or rotten egg smell   Hydrogen sulfide, corrosion, metals

Water appears cloudy frothy or colored  Detergents

Nearby agriculture                      Nitrate, pesticides, coliform bacteria 

Odor of gasoline or near gas station    Volatile organic compounds

Dump, junkyard, landfill or             VOC's, TDS, pH, sulfate,  
dry cleaning business nearby            chloride, metals

Back to Home | Back to Frequently Asked Questions About Water Quality