Standard Water Analysis

Water analysis tests must be performed before a house can be sold to ensure the water is safe to drink and use. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has minimum standards that must be followed for contaminants. Standard water analysis tests may vary by state and by the companies performing the tests.

Microorganisms

• Coliform bacteria is present in the environment and in people and animals. It should not be in our water, however. Its presence is usually a sign of contamination in the septic system or pipes. Nitrates in water can come from fertilizer, sewage or leaching from septic tanks. High levels of nitrates are especially harmful to infants, according to the EPA.

Secondary

• Some element levels in drinking water are not regulated by the EPA. Instead, the EPA has guidelines that states can choose to adopt as law. Copper can cause water to taste bitter and plumbing fixtures to turn blue-green. Iron will turn sinks, tubs and laundry a reddish-brown and will have a bad taste. High acidity levels can also cause water to taste bitter and can corrode plumbing.

Other

• Hardness (mineral content) of the water may be tested. Hard water that's high in calcium and magnesium causes scaling in pipes, and soap doesn't work as well in hard water as it does in soft water, which contains less of these minerals.