October 22, 2024 · 7 min read
A comprehensive water test checks for more than just one or two contaminants. Here's what's in your water.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are over 80 different contaminants that can be found in drinking water. Most residential water tests check for the most common and harmful ones. Here's what a comprehensive water test actually looks for.
The Water Quality Association measures water hardness in grains per gallon (gpg) or milligrams per liter (mg/L). Hardness levels are typically categorized as:
According to the USGS, Florida has some of the hardest groundwater in the country due to the limestone geology.
The EPA sets the secondary maximum contaminant level for iron at 0.3 mg/L. At higher levels, iron causes rust-colored stains on fixtures, laundry, and plumbing. The University of Florida IFAS Extension notes that iron bacteria can also create biofim buildup in pipes that reduces water flow and pressure.
The EPA notes that hydrogen sulfide levels above 1 mg/L cause the "rotten egg" smell and can accelerate corrosion of metal plumbing. Levels above 0.5 mg/L can cause yellow or black stains on plumbing fixtures and laundry.
The EPA recommends pH between 6.5 and 8.5 for drinking water. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), water below pH 6.5 is considered acidic and can corrode pipes, leaching metals like lead and copper into your water. Florida's karst geology often results in naturally low pH water.
Total coliform bacteria testing checks for organisms that indicate potential contamination from soil, surface water, or sewage. The EPA requires public water systems to test for E. coli specifically. For private wells, the Florida Department of Health recommends annual coliform testing.
TDS measures all dissolved minerals, salts, and metals in your water. The EPA's secondary drinking water regulations recommend TDS stay below 500 mg/L for best taste. High TDS can indicate elevated levels of various contaminants and affects water taste significantly.
Our comprehensive water test checks for all these contaminants and more. We provide a written report with clear recommendations for any issues found.
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