Do you suspect the quality of water from your well is compromised? The only way to find out is by testing and confirming with scientific results. Water well testing ensures that this source of water is safe and reliable. By knowing what is in the water, you can make plans for appropriate treatment to make it suitable. Testing helps use this precious resource efficiently, even if it is not suitable for human drinking. There are several reasons for regular water well quality testing:

Check For Contaminants

Groundwater contains a variety of minerals and chemical compounds. These naturally occurring contaminants can occur at high levels, making the water unsafe for human consumption. For example, water high in nitrates is unsafe for drinking. In children, it causes blue baby syndrome.

In many cases, contamination originates from above ground. Bacteria and viruses from dead and previously infected animals buried in the ground can percolate to groundwater. Some dangerous pathogens like anthrax can survive in the ground for very long and have the potential to cause grievous harm. 

You should also do water well testing if there is a well-known source of contaminants nearby. These include landfills, chemical factories, gas stations, car washes, and even dry cleaners. Regular testing helps identify contaminants as soon as leakages from these sources happen. 

Track Changes in Quality 

Groundwater quality can change from contamination or changes in the soil structure. For example, a sudden influx of mineral compounds changes the water's pH. It becomes too acidic or basic for use, including human consumption and laundry.

Water well testing helps notice changes quickly and identify the problem. It helps determine if the well is damaged internally or if the damage is external. You can then determine if the well is repairable. 

Determine Effectiveness of Water Treatment

You need to do water well testing after deploying a treatment system. It helps determine if the water has become suitable for whatever purpose it is intended or you need to adjust the treatment.

After Water Well Damage and Repair 

Water well testing is advisable after a storm and flooding. The well structure could be damaged and allow infiltration of floodwaters, which contaminates the well. Heavy flooding saturates the ground, and much of the water percolates to the water table. It carries contaminants, including mineral and organic contaminants. 

Water well system quality testing helps determine if the well is contaminated after such inundation. Test again after repairing the well to find if the repairs and treatment are effective. 

Would you like to ensure your family is using quality groundwater? Talk to a well contractor. They can provide more information about water well testing.