Keep Your Supply Safe with Regular Well Water Testing in Monroe, NC

Water treatment systems in Monroe, NC are helpful with maintaining quality, but that does not render well water testing unnecessary. Since well systems coexist with septic systems and do not undergo the same treatment standards as city water, it is recommended you test the water at least once a year. There are other factors that require greater frequency, and it is important to know them. Here is an overview on the possible dangers lurking in well water, and how to know when you need a test.

Possible dangers

Contaminants in well water can pose health risks, but they usually only affect the taste and odor of water. These are not small concerns, since that can affect cooking and bathing. Also, heavily metallic water can be hard on pipes. That is why people choose water treatment systems. They can improve the taste and smell of their well water while also softening it for utilitarian purposes.

Well water can be contaminated by radon and organic matter. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that arises from all environments. It is not dangerous in small amounts, but can be a threat if it concentrates. There are action levels for radon depending on what arises during testing.

Organic matter can arise from artificial and natural phenomena. A common chemical is MTBE, which was once an additive in gasoline. It shows up in remote areas, even where there has never been manufacturing. Coliform indicates bacterial contamination. It is usually not hazardous except for people with weakened immune systems. However, its presence often indicates a growing problem with well contamination.

Nitrates produce the most concern. They arise from fertilizers, septic systems, manure and leaking sewer lines. While healthy adults feel ill when exposed to nitrates, they are exceptionally dangerous to small children and infants.

Testing frequency

Standard well testing covers arsenic, bacteria, chloride, copper, fluoride, hardness, iron, lead, manganese, nitrate, sodium, uranium and pH. Higher-than-usual levels may indicate issues with the environment, but also any problems with your plumbing or fixtures.

It is a good practice to test your well water once a year. Increase that frequency if the following conditions arise:

• Use of hazardous chemicals near your home
• Recent repairs or well installation
• Noticeable changes in quality after heavy rains or plumbing difficulties
• Cloudy appearance, weird taste or an odor that did not exist before
• Family members or guests complaining of intestinal discomfort
• Small children live in your household
• Recent septic malfunction
• Any history of bacterial contamination

In some cases, especially if you have children or immune-compromised family members, it is a good idea to test your water at least two to three times a year. If you confirm and treat bacterial contamination, continue to test your well with the same frequency, since there is a chance of reinfection even after repair and treatment. You want to assure the safety of your water, and that is nearly impossible if you do not monitor it thoroughly.

If you require water treatment systems or well water testing in Monroe, NC, call Love Well & Pump Supply, LLC today.

Categorised in: Well Water Testing

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