Water Testing

Are you selling your home or buying a new one? Are you concerned about potential health related contaminants like bacteria, arsenic or radon? If you answered yes to either question, we can help. We have a variety of test packages to fit any testing requirement you might have and can help you decide which package best suits your needs! We utilize the services of independent state certified labs to perform the analysis, and once reported will take the time to help you interpret these results so they make sense to you!

Another question that is asked by new and existing homeowners is when and how often should they test their water. When building or buying a home, an initial water quality test is highly recommended. This will give you an idea of possible problems, if any. Every well has its own chemistry and should be evaluated on an individual basis. Once you have your basic test, it is recommended to test your water annually for bacteria. If you see changes in your well water i.e., odors, color, laundry problems, have it tested more thoroughly than just bacteria. Testing your water is your responsibility and should not be taken lightly.

Well Evaluations

A lot of people ask when buying a house if they should have the well evaluated and what the guidelines are for clean, safe-to-drink well water. The answer is Yes and here is why:

When buying a home, a home inspection is usually done. Generally, there are no regulations as to the quality or quantity of the well, however if you are purchasing through the FHA there are guidelines to follow. Many relocation companies and lending institutions are adopting these guidelines to help assure the buyer is not stuck with problems.

For example, the requirements for a bedrock well is 5 gallons per minute for 4 hours and a specific list of testing parameters for quality: Total coliform (bacteria), sodium, conductivity, copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, lead, ammonia, sodium, potassium, alkalinity, chloride, chlorine, color, turbidity, conductivity, hardness, nitrates, pH, turbidity, odor, sediments and sulfates. The quality test should be drawn from a raw source (before any filtration or treatment).
Typically, most problems can be corrected with quality equipment and proper installation.

The quantity requirement is not so easily understood. As stated above the requirements for a bedrock well is 5 gallons per minute for 4 hours. What this really means is 1,200- gallons in 4 hours. This does not necessarily mean the well must produce 5 gallons per minute. A 6" drilled well stores approximately 1-1/2 gallons of water per foot, which is factored in. For example, a 500' well producing 2-1/2-gallons per minute will usually meet the guidelines, however a 200' well that makes 2-1/2 gallons per minute will not.

While this may all seem complicated, it is relatively simple and Skillings & Sons, Inc. will answer any questions that you may have regarding these issues. Also, ask your lender if there are any requirements pertaining to your transaction so you are not told at the last minute that you need documentation that you do not have.

For additional facts and information click on the following links:

Arsenic.pdf