Free Water Testing

Our most important safety concern is keeping water free of pathogens, including coliform bacteria, parasites, and viruses. Coliform testing is required by law (Safe Drinking Water Act) and is routinely performed on all public drinking water systems. Drinking water can also undergo USP testing and chemical assessments for contaminants, including lead, copper, iron, and radionuclides. Once water is deemed safe, it should be clear, odor-free, and pleasant-tasting. The unique aspect of Water Test is that most test results are available within 24 hours from our certified testing companies. This quick availability helps expedite home closings and gives you peace of mind knowing your water is safe to drink. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) recommends testing private water yearly for bacteria and nitrates. By testing your water annually, you safeguard your family against consuming contaminated water. Do you want to know what’s in your water? SCHEDULE A BACTERIA TEST!

Free Water Test

What We Check

Coliform Bacteria

Coliform bacteria are a group of microorganisms found in soil, surface water, vegetation, and animal waste. Coliform bacteria do not cause any observable changes in the odor, taste, or color of water. Testing is the only way to determine if they are present. This is why it is essential to have your water tested yearly. Coliform bacteria are reliable indicator organisms for assessing water quality because they are associated with disease-causing organisms. The presence of coliform bacteria in water usually indicates that the water is unsuitable for drinking. A thorough chlorination process must be followed to eliminate the bacteria from the well. The water should then be retested to confirm the presence or absence of bacteria.

E.coli Bacteria

One group of coliform bacteria, fecal coliforms, is associated with human and animal waste. E.coli is a type of fecal coliform bacteria found in the intestines of both humans and animals. Some strains of E. coli can cause health problems. Testing for total coliform bacteria is a reliable indicator of water quality because they are associated with disease-producing organisms. Waterborne transmission occurs through swimming in contaminated lakes, pools, or drinking contaminated water. The primary source of E. coli contamination in healthy water is the surrounding ground and soil. The presence of E. coli in water indicates recent sewage or animal waste contamination. Water contaminated with E.coli is unsuitable for drinking. This is why it is essential to have your water tested yearly. If E. coli bacteria are present, a thorough chlorination process must be followed to eliminate them from the well. The water should then be retested to confirm the presence or absence of bacteria.

Lead

Lead is a metal found in natural deposits as ores containing other elements. It is sometimes used in household plumbing materials or in water service lines that convey water from the main to the home. The primary source of lead in drinking water is from corrosion of household plumbing systems. Lead and its compounds are toxic and accumulate in bone when ingested at rates exceeding the natural elimination rate of approximately 300 μg per day. Accumulation of significant amounts of lead in the body may cause severe and permanent brain damage, convulsions, and death. The EPA recommended limit for lead is 0.015 mg/L.

Total/Free Chlorine

Chlorine is the prevailing choice for disinfection and biofouling control of drinking water, wastewater, industrial water conditioning, and swimming pool water. Excessive chlorine can be as harmful as insufficient chlorine, so it must be monitored carefully. High quantities of chlorine can cause health-related problems. The residual chlorine level in drinking water must be checked regularly. Monitoring chlorine residual is essential for successful and efficient chlorination. A minimum free chlorine residual of 0.2 mg/L should be sufficient to maintain disinfection. Chlorine residual over 1.0 mg/L is too high and leaves a bad taste in the water.

Hardness

Water hardness is caused almost entirely by calcium and magnesium ions. The amount of these ions and the amount of time the water stays in contact with them determine the water hardness level. Hard water causes scale formation in boilers, boiler feedwater heaters, feed lines, and economizers. In cooling water systems, scale will develop in heat exchange equipment and wherever water circulates and is exposed to a temperature change. Hard water also causes “soap curd” on fixtures, tile, dishes, and laundry. The water also has a low sudsing characteristic. Hard water aggravates dry skin conditions, takes the shine out of hair, and clings to skin. Water hardness is measured in grains per gallon. Hardness is measured as follows: Soft water is 0-1 GPG; Slightly hard water is 1-3.5 GPG; Moderately hard water is 3.5-7.0 GPG; Hard water is 7.0-10.5 GPG; Very hard water is 10.5 GPG & over.

Manganese

Manganese in water is a common, naturally occurring problem. It can also be introduced by the industry. Manganese is usually found in combination with iron. It causes a bitter taste in water, and at concentrations above 0.05 mg/L, it causes dark scale in pipes and water heaters. High levels of manganese cause black staining of plumbing fixtures and laundry, and clog up submersible pumps and pipes. The EPA recommended limit is 0.05 mg/L.

Our most important safety concern is keeping water free from organisms that cause disease and viruses.

Custom Filtration Systems can help you evaluate the effectiveness of these products against bacteria, molds, and viruses by utilizing select AOAC, ASTM, CPSC, USP, and ISO methods.