WATER TESTING

Water is something we all need regardless of where we live and what our lifestyles may be. Without good water supplies people can succumb to all types of illnesses, the majority of which can take lives. This is why water testing, especially of drinking water is so important. 

Testing the water allows a knowledgeable approach to address the specific problems of a water supply. This helps ensure that the water source is being properly protected from potential contamination, and that an appropriate treatment system is selected and is operating properly.The test results allow you to properly address the specific problems of a water supply. This will help ensure that the water source is being properly protected from potential contamination, and that appropriate treatment is selected and operating properly.

Why test my water?

Regular testing is necessary to determine specific water quality problems.

·        To help ensure you are using water suitable for your intended agricultural use.

·        To help ensure that your drinking water is safe.

·        To help determine the effectiveness of your water treatment system.

Basic Water Potability Test packages include tests for coliform bacteria, nitrates, pH, sodium, chloride, fluoride, sulphate, iron, manganese, total dissolved solids, and hardness.

• Coliform bacteria tests indicate the presence of microorganisms in the water that are potentially harmful to human health.

 • Nitrate is a common contaminant found mainly in groundwater. High nitrate concentrations can be particularly dangerous for babies under six months, since nitrate interferes with the ability of blood to carry oxygen.

 • Ions such as sodium, chloride, sulphate, iron, and manganese can impart objectionable taste or odour to water.

• Excessive amounts of sulfate can have a laxative effect or cause gastrointestinal irritation.

• Fluoride is an essential micro-nutrient, but excessive amounts can cause dental problems.

• Total dissolved solids represent the amount of inorganic substances (i.e. sodium, chloride, sulphate) that are dissolved in the water. High total dissolved solids (TDS) can reduce the palatability of water

Other tests may be appropriate if a particular contaminant is suspected in the water. For instance, groundwater sources are sometimes tested for arsenic, selenium, and uranium. Both surface and groundwater sources may also be tested for pesticide contamination.

Domestic water supplies should be tested a minimum of once per year. Drinking water supplies obtained from shallow wells and surface water sources should be tested more frequently (i.e. seasonally), as they are more susceptible to contamination.

It is important to test your drinking water at the tap and at the source. Testing both will help you determine if your treatment system is performing correctly, and if the quality of your source water has changed.