The Importance Of Well Water Testing For Independent Consumers

By Essie Osborn


Millions of people take the water that they get from their taps for granted but there are also many other people that are dependent upon boreholes for their supply. The Environmental Protection Agency in the United States has very strict regulations regarding public systems, but these do not apply to privately owned systems such as boreholes. The onus is therefore on the consumer to make sure well water testing is conducted regularly.

It is imperative that owners of private boreholes have the quality of their water analyzed. In a study conducted by the Montana State University showed that almost forty per cent of the samples analyzed contained coliform bacteria and half of those samples had nitrate levels high enough to pose a serious health threat to those drinking it. If boreholes are not tested those using it may contract serious diseases.

It is not really feasible to test regularly for all the various contaminants that can be found in privately owned boreholes. The tests are expensive. Experts advise that it is necessary to test for coliform bacteria and nitrates, however. Both of these are common contaminants and they can pose a threat to human health. Tests should also be conducted for the presence of dissolved solids, but this contaminant is mostly cosmetic.

The threat of using borehole products should be taken seriously. Tests have shown that there is a number of serious conditions that can be contracted if using contaminated borehole products. This includes dysentery, hepatitis and even some of the more dangerous neurological disorders. In addition, people undergoing radical treatments such as chemotherapy are at particular risk. Vulnerable people such as infants and AIDS patients are at great risk.

There are many reasons why boreholes can become infected with harmful contaminants. Nearby mining operations, for example, can pollute the underground table. The use of lead piping can also play a seriously negative role. Seepage from sewage pipes or septic systems have proven to be a grave concern. Even pesticides and chemicals used at nearby farming or manufacturing operations can prove to be detrimental.

Experts agree that borehole contents should be tested at least once a year. However, more frequent or incidental tests should be undertaken when certain signs occur. If any user becomes ill or if there have been incidents of flooding it may be a good idea to have the borehole tested. If there is any change in the color or taste alarm bells should also ring.

Borehole owners have many choices about where they want test to be conducted. Many local authorities offer test facilities. Local universities also often offer such services. It is vital to use a registered and acknowledged facility, however. It may be useful to look for references and advice on the internet, especially from service centers that have experience in local conditions.

A private borehole should be tested regularly. The health and wellbeing of all that use it is at stake. There are good reasons why the government is so strict on the quality of public systems. Water needs to be clean and healthy. If this is not the case, disease and worse may ensue.




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