For millions of households across the country that rely on private wells, water quality isn’t just a matter of convenience—it’s a vital concern for health, safety, and peace of mind. Unlike municipal water systems, which are regulated and regularly tested by public agencies, private wells are the sole responsibility of the homeowner. That means ensuring your water is clean, safe, and free from contaminants falls entirely on your shoulders.
This is where professional water testing becomes not just beneficial, but essential.
Our team can provide fast and effective water testing. Then, we can design a water treatment system to install that will keep your water safe, clean, and drinkable for the foreseeable future.
Understanding the Risks of Untested Well Water
While groundwater from private wells in Olympia is often perceived as pure, it can be susceptible to a variety of contaminants. These may include:
- Microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites (e.g., E. coli or Giardia)
- Nitrates and nitrites from agricultural runoff or septic systems
- Heavy metals like arsenic, lead, or iron
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from industrial or household chemicals
- Pesticides and herbicides
Contamination can occur for a number of reasons—flooding, nearby construction, faulty well caps, or even natural mineral deposits. Some pollutants cause no immediate symptoms but can lead to serious health issues with prolonged exposure. Without proper testing, you may not know your water is unsafe until there is an issue.
Why Professional Testing Beats DIY Kits
While at-home water testing kits are widely available, they often provide limited results and lack the accuracy needed for reliable analysis. Professional water testing, on the other hand, uses certified laboratories equipped with advanced instruments and methods to detect a broad range of contaminants with high precision.
Professional testers can also interpret the results accurately, provide actionable recommendations, and help you understand what, if any, treatment is needed—whether that’s filtration, softening, disinfection, or system repair.
When and How Often Should You Test Your Well Water?
The EPA recommends that private well owners test their water at least once a year for bacteria, nitrates, and any contaminants of local concern. However, additional testing may be necessary:
- After heavy rainfall, flooding, or nearby drilling
- If you notice changes in taste, color, or smell
- If someone in the home experiences unexplained health symptoms
- When buying or selling a home with a private well
A baseline full-panel test is a wise move when first moving into a property, followed by routine checkups as part of your annual home maintenance.
The Long-Term Benefits of Testing
Regular professional testing ensures you can act quickly if contaminants are found, protecting the health of everyone in your household. It can also prolong the life of your plumbing and appliances by identifying corrosive water conditions or mineral content that leads to scaling.
Additionally, documented test results can be an asset if you’re ever looking to refinance or sell your home—providing reassurance to lenders and prospective buyers alike.
Schedule your first water testing appointment with the professionals at American Pump and Drilling.