If your drinking water comes from your own well, it is up to you to make sure that it is safe. We strongly urge routine testing for a few of the most common contaminants. Even if you believe you have a safe, pure water supply. Keep all of your test findings in a journal, this information can be helpful in solving any future problems and in obtaining compensation if someone damages your water supply.

Every year you should test for coliform bacteria, nitrate, pH and TDS. it is best to test for these contaminants during the spring or summer following a rainy period. These tests should also be conducted after repairing or replacing an old well or pipes, and after installing a new well or pump. Every 3 years you should test for sulfate, chloride, iron, manganese, lead, hardness and corrosion index.

Of course you should test any time you suspect a problem and if a new baby is expected in the household it is a good idea to test for nitrate in the early months of a pregnancy, before bringing an infant home, and again during the first 6 months of the baby's life.

WaterSafe makes a Water Test Kit that sells for $19.95. Very simple to use.