Finding Water Testing Near You

Life depends on water. If you’ve ever typed “water testing near me” into a search engine, you likely know the importance of clean, safe, high-quality drinking water. Did you know that the quality of water can affect more than your health? It can also affect your home.

The quality of residential water can also fluctuate widely based on location, source, and environmental factors. That’s why having your water tested by a professional or expert is vital.

Let’s explore several reasons why water testing is so important, the advantages of having your water tested by a water treatment professional, additional considerations for well water, and the difference between a basic in-home water test and an extensive water analysis.

The Pivotal Role of a Water Treatment Professional

Protecting Your Health

One of the primary reasons many homeowners reach out to a water treatment professional for water testing is because they are concerned about the health and safety of their families.

Drinking water can contain a variety of contaminants such as coliform bacteria, lead, nitrates, arsenic, PFAS, and other contaminants. Some of these can pose potential health risks but vary depending on where you live. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has specific water standards and typically requires that public water systems are tested once or twice per year, sometimes more, depending on potential contaminants in the area and the size of the population that each municipality serves. The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) also allows individual states to set and enforce their own drinking water standards as long as they meet the EPA’s minimal national standards.

However, municipalities aren’t required to monitor the pipes that transport this water to residents consistently. This means that treated water leaving public water systems could potentially become contaminated before reaching your tap. According to the EPA, there are other contaminants suspected to be in drinking water that are monitored but not yet regulated. A local water treatment expert will possess knowledge about common contaminants in your specific water supply and will be able to recommend the type of water testing that is best for your family. They’ll also be able to make the best recommendation based on those test results.

Well Water

For those who secure their drinking water from private wells, The National Ground Water Association (NGWA) recommends private well owners test their water at least annually for bacteria, nitrates, and any contaminants of local concern. The NGWA also makes recommendations for when your private well should have regular testing done more often.

Well water quality can change over time due to factors such as weather patterns, seasonal variations, and land use changes. Regular testing allows you to stay informed about any alterations in water quality. Well water testing can also help detect emerging issues early, preventing health problems and more extensive contamination problems, and indicate the need for maintenance or rehabilitation of your private well or maintenance to your current water treatment system to ensure the longevity of your well water supply. When the water quality of your well changes, the settings on your water treatment or softening system may need to be adjusted, filters may need to be changed more frequently, or other specific maintenance may be needed. A professional will be able to make the best recommendations to ensure you get the healthiest water possible.

You can check with your local health department or call Clean Water of Virginia to ask about recommendations for the type and frequency of testing specific well water based on your location and property usage. You should rely on a water treatment expert to determine the best course of action based on your test results.

Your Overall Experience with Water

The quality of your water is not just about your health but also your overall experience. Unpleasant tastes and odors in your water can be a sign of poor water quality potentially caused by contamination from dissolved minerals, organic matter, or chlorine. This can also impact daily activities like enjoying a sip of drinking water, cooking, cleaning, taking a hot shower, or relaxing in a bath. The water treatment professionals at Clean Water of Virginia have the expertise to analyze your water’s taste, odor, and appearance to ensure that it is not only safe but that it meets your expectations.

Protecting Your Appliances and Fixtures

Hard water can lead to limescale buildup. Over time, this limescale can reduce the efficiency and shorten the lifespan of your appliances like water heaters and washing machines. High levels of contaminants like iron and manganese in water can also cause staining of your laundry and fixtures. A water treatment professional can test your water to quickly detect signs of hard water and levels of iron, and manganese.

Hair, Skin, and Nails

Hard water doesn’t just create buildup inside your appliances. This same buildup can also affect the health of your skin and hair. Once a water treatment professional identifies hard water levels, they can provide tailored solutions to soften your water and protect your hair and skin. As a bonus, your shampoo and soap will go further than usual and you’ll have to spend less money on lotions and creams to keep your skin moisturized.

Plumbing System Preservation

Corrosive water can take a toll on your plumbing system, resulting in expensive repairs. Water treatment experts have the knowledge and experience to pinpoint corrosive characteristics like low pH and high acidity levels. They can recommend effective strategies to prevent long-term damage that will extend the life of your plumbing and fixtures.

Basic Water Test vs. In-Depth Water Analysis

Understanding the differences between a basic water test and an in-depth water analysis is important. A local water treatment professional will consider key factors about the drinking water in the Virginia & West Virginia area like the presence of a specific contaminant. Potential chemicals and the presence of harmful bacteria will vary by area. At Clean Water of Virginia we rely on our years of experience and information from the local county health department when recommending the type of test you should choose. Regardless of the test you choose, a water sample must be collected properly.

Basic Water Test

A basic test for your water typically assesses fundamental parameters such as pH levels, chlorine content, hardness, and common contaminants. Many reputable water treatment professionals, including Clean Water of Virginia, offer a free basic water test(link to test page). These tests serve as a starting point and give an initial glimpse at the quality of your water.

In-Depth Water Analysis

In contrast, an in-depth water analysis goes beyond the basics. It examines a broader spectrum of potential contaminants, including PFAS, bacteria, arsenic, heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, pesticides, and more.

Your local water treatment dealer can help you determine if an in-depth water analysis is warranted. These intricate tests are done at a certified laboratory and provide a precise and detailed assessment of the composition of your drinking water. This in-depth analysis may come at an additional cost, but the comprehensive insights it offers can be invaluable.

Experience You Can Trust

Whether you get your water from a public water system or a private well, water testing by water treatment professionals is an essential step in ensuring a safe and healthy home environment. Clean Water of Virginia offers a free basic test to provide an initial assessment of your water quality and provide recommendations on how to treat your water. However, for a thorough and precise evaluation of potential contaminants, investing in an in-depth water analysis conducted by professionals is an excellent decision. Clean Water of Virginia can help you prioritize the well-being of your family, and the preservation of your appliances and plumbing system based on your test results. Clean, safe water is the cornerstone of public health, healthy families, and healthy homes. We’ve been serving the Virginia & West Virginia community for over 66. Our knowledge of the local water supply makes all the difference. Call us today at (540) 888-8044 to schedule an appointment to have your water tested and take the first step toward having peace of mind about your water quality.