Well water starts as rain. As it seeps into the ground, it can dissolve solids there that can wind up in the water you drink, cook with and bathe in. Regular testing helps detect and allows you to eliminate any dangerous chemicals or other adulterants.
A few of the chemicals and other contaminants that can be detected through well water testing:
- Arsenic. This naturally occurring metal is toxic to both humans and animals. It’s rare for arsenic to show up in ground water in Connecticut, but it is still important to test for it at least once.
- Copper and lead. Lead can lead to developmental disabilities in children and copper can cause poisoning. These contaminants may be present if your well water has a pH level that is below 7 and your house was built after 1986 or within the last two years. Some plumbing pipes may be made out of copper or have fixtures and solder that contain lead.
- Coliform bacteria. This is a bacterium that has been introduced to the well and which can make people who drink water from it sick. Common causes are improperly cared for septic tanks and nearby livestock.
- Nitrates and nitrites. Water with excess nitrates and nitrites can make infants ill.
- Iron and manganese. These chemicals can give water an off taste and cause staining.
- Chloride, sodium and sulfate. Excess consumption of these chemicals can cause problems with your health.
- Radon. This is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally in many areas of the state. If radon has been detected in the air in your home, your water should be tested, as well.
When you contact Greco and Haines, Inc. for well water testing, we will check the levels of the above contaminants and report back to you about the quality of your water. Your well water should be tested once a year to ensure that it is safe.
Keeping Your Well Water Safe
There are many things you can do to keep your well water safe and pure. A few steps for responsible homeowners:
- Know where your well is located on your property and that it is covered with a sanitary seal or cap.
- Check the well regularly for problems such as cracked seals, damaged or corroded well casings or a broken or missing well cap.
- If your home has a septic system, have it pumped and inspected regularly. Not following health department recommendations in this area can lead to contamination of your drinking water.
- Ensure that your well is protected from rodents and insects.
It’s vital that the water that you drink is pure and healthy for your family. Contact Greco and Haines Inc. to determine what water treatment options are available to treat contaminated water in your well.