Ensuring Your Well Water is Safe to Consume

22 Feb Ensuring Your Well Water is Safe to Consume

If you live on a property that cannot access water through municipal services, you will need to install a well water system on your property. To ensure your well is installed properly and provides you with water that is safe to consume, there are 4 main factors to consider. These include:

• Location: Dig the well in an area where contaminants will not reach the water in the well.
• Construction: Construct the well in a way that will prevent caving and will not allow pollutants and contaminants to enter the water.
• Testing: Test the water before consuming it. 
• Maintenance: Keep the water safe through regular maintenance to ensure it remains free from contaminants. 

Following these simple steps will give you peace of mind in knowing your water is safe to drink.

Testing Your Water

There are several tests that can be conducted to ensure your water is safe to consume. Some of the most common tests to be performed include:

• Coliform Bacteria Test: Tests for coliform bacteria, which can indicate that other bacteria are present. 
• Fluoride Test: While some fluoride in the water is beneficial, high levels of fluoride can lead to discoloration of the teeth in addition to other severe dental problems. 
• Ion Test: While water naturally contains ions, the presence of sulfate, sodium, chloride, iron and magnesium can all create unpleased tastes and odors. 
• Nitrate Test: Water with a high concentration of nitrate is dangerous to babies under the age of six months, as it creates problems with the blood’s ability to transport oxygen. 
• Sulfate Test: High levels of sulfate can cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract, which can also lead to diarrhea.
• Total Dissolved Solids: While well water naturally contains inorganic substances. If the levels become too high, however, the water can become unpleasant to drink. 

To learn more about these tests and more, contact Pump Service Idaho today!