Many consumers assume that if their water looks, tastes, and smells okay that it's safe to drink. Unfortunately, few contaminants can actually be detected by our senses, so water testing may be needed. The four main contaminant categories are as follows:
Most health departments require a total coliform test to determine if bacteria is present in a well when it is first put into service or when the property changes ownership. Two additional forms of potential microbiological contamination include parasites and viruses, although these are most frequently found in surface water supplies.
This category includes metals and minerals that can affect either the safety or taste of well water. They can be naturally occurring or may result from manmade contamination. Some common inorganics found in well water include:
Chemicals can also leach into well water supplies from the application of pesticides, runoff from agricultural and industrial operations, or from gasoline storage tanks.
The fourth type of contaminant sometime found in private wells would be radiological in nature, such as:
To determine if any of these contaminants are present in your well water supply, you may want to have your water tested. Local health departments can usually provide a list of state-certified drinking water laboratories to whom a water sample can be sent. If any contaminants are detected at levels that exceed EPA or state guidelines for public drinking water supplies, consider installing a home water treatment system or using certified bottled water for drinking.
To view a list of common contaminants that can be found in public and private drinking water supplies, view the contaminant guide.
To find NSF certified products, visit the online product database.