How to Test Home Water for Heavy Metals
Things You'll Need
- Heavy metal screening kit
Instructions
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1
Read the instructions that come with your heavy metal screening kit regarding any special considerations for your home. For example, some kits suggest you test well water directly if your water does not come from a municipal system.
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2
Remove the sample containers that come with the heavy metal screening kit. Remove the caps from the containers, but do not touch the inside of the cap or container to prevent contamination.
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Place the test paper strip inside the sample container, and add the testing solution. Allow the strip and testing solution to sit for at least 30 seconds before adding water.
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4
Add the amount of water indicated in the at-home kit instructions using a plastic pipette, included with the kit. Place the lid on the sample container, and shake the container for several seconds to mix the solution with the water.
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5
Allow the sample container to stand still for the time indicated in the kit's instruction manual. Wait for the sample strip to change color.
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6
Use the heavy metals chart included with your testing kit to compare the color that appears on the testing strip to the indications in the kit. Each kit varies on what color determines what metals or the amount of metals that are present in the water. The faster a testing strip changes color, the higher the concentration of metals present, according to the Better Health Company.
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