Drinking Water

Test Your Drinking Water

You expect the water from your faucet to be pure and safe for your family. However, chemically pure water rarely exists in nature. And if you are one of the half-million private well owners in Indiana, you are the only one responsible for monitoring the quality of your water and ensuring the health and safety of your family.

Water absorbs dissolved minerals, organic compounds and organisms as it moves through the soil and the air into our water supplies. As water absorbs other substances, it can also absorb unwanted contaminants from the environment that can be harmful for you and your family to drink. While water may appear clean and contaminant-free, it can still contain contaminants that may be unsafe to drink.

Regular Testing

Public water systems are required to regularly test and treat water for certain contaminants. But if you own a house with a private well than the only water testing that will be done is by you. Testing for possible contaminants on a routine basis is the only way to be certain your water supply is safe for you and your family.

What to Test For

Don't know what contaminants to test for in your water? Start with having your water tested for bacteria and total nitrate/nitrite. Learn more about these common contaminants and others that might be effecting your drinking water:
  • Bacteria (Total Coliforms, E. Coli, Fecal Coliforms)
  • Contaminants Causing Odor and Discoloration Problems
  • Total Nitrate/Nitrites

Water Treatment Equipment

Before purchasing a system you should know how the various systems work, what problems they address and the maintenance required. If more than one problem exists, treating water can become complicated. Read more about water treatment equipment for your home that discusses important questions your should consider before purchasing any water treatment equipment, as well as the major types of treatment equipment, their advantages, disadvantages, costs, and uses.

Contact your local Health Department if you think your drinking water has become contaminated.