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      Well Water Analysis

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Water Tests are $25.00 for the First Parameter Tested and $10.00 for each Additional Parameter Tested.

SAMPLES ARE ACCEPTED: Between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, and on Thursday between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon.

SAMPLES MUST BE FRESH: Samples should be drawn the same day they are submitted or the night before. Tests are run on samples warmed to room temperature and can be no more than 24 hours old at that time. Refrigerate the sample if taken the night before.

WE TEST FOR:

COLIFORM BACTERIA: The presence of coliform bacteria (greater than one  colony) suggests a possible bacterial contamination. A positive coliform test indicates that the well should be checked for septic tank infiltration, a cracked casing, or surface water seepage.

NITRATE: Nitrate is an indicator of possible contamination from septic systems or animal wastes. In excessive amounts, it contributes to an illness know as infant methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome).

IRON: Iron in excessive amounts will stain laundry and porcelain fixtures and give a taste and odor to the water.

HARDNESS: Hardness is a measurement of the total concentration of calcium and magnesium in the water. Excessive hardness will cause scale in pipes, water heaters, and on cooking utensils.

LEAD:  Drinking water may become contaminated with lead when water stands in lead pipes or in copper that are connected with lead-based solder.  The longer the water remains in these pipes, the higher the potential for lead contamination.  Special sampling procedures must be adhered to, including the use of a sample container specially prepared for the lead test.

 

HOW TO TAKE A WATER SAMPLE

  1. Pre-sterilized bottles are available in the Planning & Zoning Office for a $5.00 deposit.  If the bottle is not returned within 3 months, your deposit will not be refunded.  You can also boil your own glass container and lid for 5 minutes. A minimum of one pint of water is needed for testing.
     

  2. Choose a cold water tap as close as possible to the pump, remove strainer. Bypass any water softeners.
     

  3. Run the water for 5 minutes.
     

  4. Remove the cap from the bottle being careful not to touch the inside surface.
     

  5. Turn the water off, sterilize tap outlet with a small propane torch, a match, a candle, or a lighter.
     

  6. Fill the bottle, replace the cap.

 

WATER TESTING FEES

First Parameter $  25.00
Each Additional Parameter $  10.00
Water Pick-up $  50.00 + Mileage
Water/Sewer Pick Up $135.00 + Mileage
Sewer Compliance only $  50.00 + Mileage
Lead Pick-up $  40.00 + Mileage

 

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