|  | Public Health Safety | Environmental Health

Analysis of Drinking Water

An analysis of drinking water is a battery of tests conducted to determine its toxicity, bacteria content and mineral contenr. A drinking water analysis can be conducted by civilian and government organizations.

  1. Well Water Tests

    • One of the most common drinking water tests conducted is that of a homeowner's well. Testing well water can ensure the safety of your family by alerting you to any health concerns.

    Testing Municipal Water

    • If you are a homeowner and receive your water from a municipal source, it is not necessary to test your water. Municipal water is regularly tested by federal and state agencies to ensure drinkability.

    When Should I Test My Water?

    • If you are buying a home, you should have the well tested. You also should test your well if you or your family have recurring gastrointestinal problems. Testing your well before purchasing a home can help you avoid expensive repairs as well.

    Costs

    • Typically a comprehensive well water test costs $200 to $300. The more comprehensive tests are recommended for anyone buying a home.

    Fun Fact

    • The average cost for water supplied to a home in the United States is about $2 to 1,000 gallons--that equals around 5 gallons for a penny.

Environmental Health - Related Articles