The Importance of Testing Your Home Well Water in Maine

More than half of Maine homes get their drinking water from private wells. If your home has a well, you bear the responsibility for your home well, like its testing and treating safety hazards. Our water treatment company can handle routine well water testing in Maine to keep your well water clean. 

Water Testing in Maine Makes the Invisible, Visible 

You may think that because your water looks and tastes fine, it’s safe, but that’s no guarantee. Invisible and odorless bacteria, viruses, and hazardous chemicals can get into your water supply, making you and your family sick. Therefore, testing your water regularly is the only way to make the invisible and odorless contaminants visible. So when you're ready, give us a call for water testing in Maine!

Did you know that a common odorless and invisible water contaminant in Maine is Arsenic. Arsenic is a naturally occurring chemical found in some rocks and soil. According to Maine’s Division of Environmental and Community Health, 1 in 10 wells in Maine contains arsenic, a known carcinogen. Unfortunately, arsenic isn’t the only health hazard that can be found in private wells. In addition, uranium and radon are commonly found also. Above all, we can not stress enough the importance of testing your well water to truly “see” what is in your water. With our well water testing services in Maine, you won't have to worry about surprise arsenic in your drinking water. 

Give our water treatment company a call at (207) 865-8165 or contact us online today to get started with cleaner water. 

What Contaminants Are Typically Tested for in Well Water?

Well water testing typically involves checking for a variety of contaminants that could impact the safety and quality of the water. The specific contaminants tested for may vary depending on factors such as location, local regulations, and potential sources of contamination. 

Here are some common contaminants that are typically tested for in well water:

1. Bacteria (Coliform and E. coli): The presence of coliform bacteria is an indicator of potential fecal contamination, and E. coli is a specific type of coliform associated with fecal matter.
2. Nitrates and Nitrites: These compounds can come from fertilizers, septic systems, or animal waste. High levels can be harmful, especially to infants and pregnant women.
3. pH Levels: pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of the water. Extreme pH levels can affect the taste of water and indicate potential corrosion of pipes.
4. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): TDS refers to the total amount of dissolved substances in water, including minerals, salts, and metals. High TDS can affect the taste and quality of water.
5. Heavy Metals (e.g., Lead, Arsenic, Iron, Manganese): These metals can leach into well water from natural deposits, pipes, or industrial activities. Elevated levels can have health implications.
6. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): These are chemicals that can come from industrial or household products. Examples include benzene, toluene, and trichloroethylene.
7. Radon: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter groundwater and pose health risks when released into the air.
8. Pesticides and Herbicides: Residues from agricultural activities can contaminate well water. Testing may include common pesticides like atrazine or glyphosate.
9. Dissolved Gases (e.g., Methane): Gases such as methane can migrate into well water from natural sources or human activities.
10. Chloride and Sulfate: Elevated levels of chloride and sulfate can affect the taste of water and may indicate contamination from industrial discharges or natural sources.
11. Turbidity: Turbidity measures the cloudiness or haziness of water caused by particles. High turbidity can affect water aesthetics and may indicate sediment or other contaminants.

It's important to note that the specific contaminants tested for can vary based on regional concerns and the individual's needs. Regular testing helps ensure that your well water remains safe for consumption and other uses.