How To Read Well Water Test Results
Testing your well water is essential to ensure it's safe for your family. Here's how to quickly understand your test results:
- Test Annually for Key Contaminants: Focus on total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH levels.
- Know the Categories:
- Primary Contaminants: Harmful substances like bacteria, nitrates, or heavy metals.
- Secondary Contaminants: Affect taste, smell, or appearance but are usually not dangerous.
- Understand pH and Hardness:
- Safe pH range: 6.5–8.5.
- Hardness levels: Anything above 7.5 grains per gallon (GPG) can cause scaling.
- Act on Unsafe Levels: For example, nitrates above 10 mg/L can harm infants and need immediate attention.
- Use the Right Treatment: Match treatment systems to specific contaminants, like UV light for bacteria or anion exchange for nitrates.
Key Tip: Use certified labs for testing and keep detailed records. If in doubt, consult a water treatment specialist. Regular testing ensures your well water remains safe and reliable.
Understanding Test Results
pH Levels in Well Water
The EPA suggests a pH range of 6.5–8.5 for safe drinking water .
If your water's pH falls below 6.5, it may be acidic. Look out for these signs:
- Bluish-green stains on copper pipes
- Reddish stains on galvanized iron plumbing
In Massachusetts, well water often tends to be naturally acidic . To address this, you can use a calcite filter to neutralize the pH. For wells with higher water output, a soda ash solution might be a better option .
Once you've checked the pH, it's time to focus on common contaminants in your water.
Common Water Contaminants
Your water test report will highlight contaminants that can impact both health and water quality. Here's a quick breakdown:
| Contaminant Type | Health Effects | Common Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Microorganisms | Stomach illness, infections | Septic systems, animal waste |
| Nitrate/Nitrite | Blue baby syndrome in infants | Agricultural runoff, fertilizers |
| Heavy Metals | Liver/kidney damage, cancer risk | Natural deposits, corroded pipes |
| Organic Chemicals | Nervous system effects, organ damage | Industrial activities, pesticides |
Activities near your property can also influence water quality. Potential contamination risks include:
- Agricultural operations like fertilizer storage or animal feedlots
- Commercial facilities such as gas stations or dry cleaners
- Industrial sites involving chemical storage or mining
- Residential practices like septic systems or fuel oil tanks
After assessing contaminants, it's important to review mineral levels to determine water hardness.
Mineral Levels and Water Hardness
Water hardness can impact your plumbing and appliances. Here's how hardness levels are classified:
| Hardness Level (GPG) | Classification | Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Below 1.0 | Soft | Minimal scaling |
| 1.0 - 3.5 | Slightly Hard | Minor deposits |
| 3.5 - 7.5 | Moderately Hard | Noticeable scaling |
| 7.5 - 10.5 | Hard | Significant deposits |
| Above 10.5 | Very Hard | Severe scaling issues |
Most people find water with a hardness above 7.5 grains per gallon challenging to manage . Hard water can lead to scaling in pipes and reduce the efficiency of water heaters. It can also make soaps and detergents less effective. If your water test indicates high hardness, installing a water softener could help. However, be mindful of the maintenance and costs involved .
Understanding Your Well Water Test Results
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Next Steps After Testing
Once you have your test results, it's time to act to ensure your water is safe. Decide if the issues can be handled on your own or if you'll need to bring in a professional.
When to Call a Specialist
Certain warning signs mean it's time to get help from a water treatment expert right away. Here are some examples:
| Warning Sign | What It Could Mean | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Unusual odors | Sulfur or bacterial contamination | Get a professional inspection |
| Pressure changes | Issues with your well pump/system | Schedule an assessment |
| Higher electric bills | Pump inefficiency | Have the system evaluated |
| Discolored water | Minerals or bacteria in water | Perform water quality testing |
| Sediment in water | Problems with well construction | Call for a professional check |
"Shock chlorination involves pouring a chlorine solution down the well... Shock chlorination should be done when there is suspected well water bacterial contamination." - NJDEP
If you notice sudden changes in water quality or have health concerns, don't wait - reach out to a specialist. If no warning signs are present, you can focus on choosing the right treatment options for your situation.
Choosing the Right Water Treatment System
Pick a treatment system that specifically addresses the contaminants identified in your water test:
| Contaminant | Treatment Method | System Type |
|---|---|---|
| Arsenic | Two-Tank Adsorption | Point of Entry |
| Bacteria (E. coli) | Ultraviolet Light | Point of Entry |
| Nitrate | Anion Exchange | Point of Entry |
| Lead | pH Adjustment | Point of Entry |
When selecting a system, keep these factors in mind:
- System Coverage: Point of Use (POU) systems treat water at specific faucets, like for drinking or cooking, and are more affordable than whole-home systems.
- Treatment Approach: Sometimes, a combination of systems - known as a treatment train - is needed to handle multiple issues effectively .
- Maintenance Needs: Regular upkeep is essential. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and test the system's performance annually to ensure it's working as intended .
Water Well Map: Tools for Well Owners
Understanding your water well test results is just the beginning - Water Well Map equips you with the tools and information needed to take the next steps. With your test results in hand, this platform helps you make informed decisions.
Finding Well Data
Water Well Map features an interactive platform that uses a color-coded system to display well data, including depths. Wells deeper than 100 feet are marked differently from shallower ones, giving you a clearer picture of local groundwater conditions.
| Data Type | Information | How It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Depth | Color-coded markers | Compare your well depth to local averages |
| Location | GPS coordinates | Identify nearby wells for reference |
| Reports | Official documentation | Access detailed water quality records |
To use it, simply find your property on the map, check the color-coded markers, and click to see detailed depth and location information.
In addition to providing data, the platform connects you with experts when professional assistance is needed.
Finding Well Services
If your test results suggest you need help, Water Well Map’s directory makes it easy to find qualified water well professionals. The platform simplifies the process of locating and contacting service providers who can address specific issues.
For added convenience, the Premium Plan ($24.99/month) includes extra tools:
| Feature | How It Helps with Water Issues |
|---|---|
| Site Surveys | Document current well conditions |
| Quote Requests | Compare costs for treatment systems |
| Well Details | Access in-depth well specifications |
| PDF Well Maps | Share well data with contractors |
"Water Well Map helps users locate water wells, discover well information, and connect with nearby drillers and service providers"
You can also access the platform through its iOS app, making it easy to view data and connect with professionals while on the go.
Summary
Testing well water regularly ensures it remains safe to use and helps identify any necessary corrective actions. Experts recommend testing annually for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH levels .
Here’s a quick guide to testing and maintenance:
| Testing Component | Frequency | Key Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Safety Check | Annual | Test for core water quality indicators |
| Professional Inspection | Spring | Inspect mechanical components |
| Additional Testing | As needed | After floods, repairs, or other changes |
| Record Keeping | Ongoing | Store test results securely |
Units of measurement are important: milligrams per liter (mg/l) is the same as parts per million (ppm), while smaller concentrations, like those for toxic substances, are measured in parts per billion (ppb) . If tests show unsafe contaminant levels, reach out to your local health department for advice and consider using bottled water temporarily .
Because private wells are not regulated like public water systems, it’s up to you to test regularly and maintain detailed records . For more resources and local service options, check out the Water Well Map. Combining thorough testing with expert assistance helps ensure your well stays in top condition.
