Water tests are often conducted during home inspections and should happen at least once a year, but in some cases, you may want to do more. There are many problems you can look for in your water to know when it is time for your next test. If your water smells or tastes different, even if you are not sure, get your water tested. Testing your water is something that should be conducted even if you have your own well or if you get it from a large municipal area.
Well Water Should Be Tested
Well water, if not inspected can contain bacteria and other contaminants. Often, we think that well water is much safer than water from our town or city. This can be the case if you are taking proper care of your well and getting it inspected when need be. Radon is a contaminant that can get into your home through cracks in the foundation and can get into your wells water supply. City water can also get contaminated so when something is off about your water, be sure to book an inspection. A yearly inspection will be able to find any issues you may not be able to catch yourself.
Know Where Your Well is Located
Many issues can come about if your well is located in an agricultural area where fertilizer is often used, if your home is near a dump, a gas station, a septic tank, or anywhere that chemicals are being dumped or used. It is easy for your well to become contaminated with bacteria, nitrates, nitrites, or lead. Knowing where your well is located and understanding your surroundings will make you conscientious of your well water and will help to know how often your water needs to be tested.
If Your Water Is Discolored or Has a Strong Smell
Water should always be crystal clear and have no smell. If your water has even a hint of color to it or a scent, this means you should get it tested. Sometimes water can come out of your faucet or shower yellow, get it checked. This can mean that there is some sort of bacteria build up, or rust if it is a dark brown color. If your home is 30 years old or older, you should always get your pipes checked out. Older pipes can mean more backup with bacteria and in some cases lead, and you may not even know it.
Other Reasons to Get Your Water Tested
If someone in your home is pregnant or nursing and is drinking water from the faucet whether you have a well or just water from your town. Even if you are not sure, it is important to get your water tested it is better to be safe than sorry. If someone in your family has an unexplained illness, getting your water tested is a great idea. If anything in your system has been replaced or repaired, you should consider getting your water tested to be sure your water is still good.
Water testing is a critical part of the home inspection process, but it is only a part. Trust in the home inspectors of the Homeinex Corporation to provide you with inspection and testing of all of your home, from structural and wiring problems to plumbing and water hazards. We have been in the business for over twenty-five years, so you can trust that you are in the best hands. Contact us today, and we can set you up with an appointment.