All About Water Testing

As concerns about water quality continue to rise, especially with pollutants like PFAS in the spotlight, getting your water tested is crucial. Many homeowners turn to water treatment companies, which often provide "free" tests through salespeople. But as a Class 3 Water Treatment Specialist, I recommend a different approach: trust independent, third-party laboratories, not a salesman with a kit of drops. Here’s why.

Why You Need an Independent Lab

Most water treatment companies are in the business of selling solutions, which often means their testing is geared towards finding issues that their products can "fix." This doesn’t mean these companies are unreliable, but it’s important to remember that their tests may be limited in scope and can sometimes exaggerate issues to push specific products.

An independent lab test, on the other hand, gives you unbiased data on what's actually in your water. By choosing a certified lab, you gain confidence that the results reflect the true condition of your water, without any pressure to buy equipment. Independent labs use advanced technology and rigorous testing protocols, and they are usually certified by state or federal agencies.

What to Look for in Your Water Test

Testing your water is more than just looking for hardness or chlorine levels. Depending on your concerns and location, you might want to screen for:

PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): These "forever chemicals" are linked to various health issues. PFAS are increasingly found in drinking water, and it's critical to test for them if you have reason to believe they're present in your area.

Heavy Metals: Lead, arsenic, and mercury can be toxic and are sometimes present in groundwater.

Nitrates and Nitrites: Commonly from agricultural runoff, these compounds are particularly harmful to infants.

Bacteria: Total coliform and E. coli bacteria can signal contamination from sewage or animal waste.

Water Hardness and Mineral Content: For basic water softening needs, though less critical for health, you may want to check hardness, calcium, and magnesium levels.

How to Test Your Water

To ensure accurate results, it’s best to collect your own sample using a kit provided by the lab. Water testing companies like Ward’s Lab in Kearney, Nebraska, offer routine analysis for personal use, while Eurofins in Lubbock, Texas, provides testing services for legal purposes.

For PFAS testing, Eurofins or services like MyTapScore.com are good choices, as they’re equipped to handle these highly specific analyses.

What to Do If You Have PFAS in Your Water

If you find PFAS, it’s wise to avoid drinking unfiltered tap water. Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems effectively reduce PFAS levels, making bottled water or RO-treated water your safest options. For whole-home protection, consider an activated carbon filter with a backwashing valve, which can also help reduce other contaminants.

Protocol for Testing Bacteria in Your Water

Testing for bacteria, specifically total coliform and E. coli, is essential, as these bacteria can signal contamination from sewage, animal waste, or other sources. The presence of these bacteria suggests potential pathways for other harmful pathogens to enter your water supply, posing health risks if left unaddressed.

To get accurate results for bacterial testing, it's important to follow a strict sampling protocol:

1. Use a Sterilized Container: Obtain a sterile container from your chosen laboratory or testing service. Independent labs, like Ward’s Lab or Eurofins, will provide appropriate containers and instructions for bacterial sampling.

2. Select a Suitable Sampling Point: Ideally, sample from a faucet that’s directly connected to your water source, such as a kitchen tap. Avoid faucets with attachments like aerators or filters, as they can harbor bacteria and potentially skew results.

3. Sanitize the Faucet: Before sampling, sanitize the faucet by wiping it with an alcohol swab or using a flame for metal fixtures to kill any surface bacteria. Let the faucet run for 2-3 minutes afterward to clear out any stagnant water.

4. Follow the Lab's Specific Instructions: Some labs may have additional requirements, so it’s essential to adhere closely to their guidelines. Any deviation could lead to inaccurate results.

5. Keep the Sample Cool: After collecting the sample, keep it cool and transport it to the lab as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours. Some bacterial tests require immediate processing, so timing is critical.

6. Review Results Carefully: Bacterial results usually indicate whether coliform or E. coli bacteria are present or absent. If results show contamination, you should take immediate steps to disinfect the water supply and consult with a water treatment professional.

By following these guidelines, you can obtain a reliable bacterial analysis and take any necessary steps to address contamination. Accurate, lab-based testing for bacteria is essential for safeguarding your health and ensuring your water is genuinely safe for consumption.

Final Thoughts: Trust Science, Not Sales

Water quality testing is about ensuring your safety and peace of mind. Independent lab results are accurate and trustworthy, so you can make informed decisions about any necessary treatments or precautions. Don’t fall for high-pressure sales tactics. Choose a reputable lab, follow the recommended testing protocol, and be confident in knowing what’s in your water.

Caitlin Frederick
ProClear Water Solutions
TCEQ Class 3 Water Specialist