I know that some people with wells do occasionally have their water tested, but they mostly just do the basic $10 bacterial test.
Does anyone do (even once every ten years or so) a full test for biological and chemical contaminants?
Do you contact your local Water Board and ask about the results of other people's/companies tests? Would they tell you?
I have met so many people who are sure their well water is pure, but they've never had it tested. Ignorance is bliss?
Just curious.
Sue
The fact that you ask the question means that you would benefit from the test....if for nothing else but peace of mind. Well water testing is pretty cheap, and can be done by county health departments. There are private labs too. Whole house reverse-osmosis systems are not too expensive, so why not put them in where they are needed for safety? Water is a universal solvent, so it carries many substances (mostly good ones) in it, depending on the area. The local counties know what 'indiginous' pollutants to test for, including e coli, radon, nitrates, lead, copper, organic compounds and on and on. Even in areas where the aquifers are pure, your house plumbing might be adding harmful elements such as lead, copper, or metal-eating bacteria.
When I had a well, I tested it semi-annually. The area I live in now conducts a full-spectrum annual water test and sends us the results and a chart showing the 'allowable' concentration of the tested pollutants. My brother lives on a pristine looking ranch in a scenic river valley miles away from any city or obvious pollution source. His well is 25 feet deep, and hopelessly polluted with nitrates (farm country). They drink bottled water.
I know you don't live in Minnesota, but here is a link with a lot of valuable information that would apply anywhere.
http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/wells/waterquality/test.html_________________________
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