Water Testing

Iron - As rainwater infiltrates the soil and underlying geologic formations, it dissolves iron, causing it to seep into aquifers that serve as sources of groundwater for wells. Although present in drinking water, iron is seldom found at concentrations greater than 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L) or 10 parts per million.

Hard water - Hard water is water that has high mineral content (in contrast with "soft water"). Hard water is formed when water percolates through deposits of limestone and chalk which are largely made up of calcium and magnesium carbonates. Water hardness testing can determine if you have hard or soft water in your home.

Soft water - Soft water is surface water that contains low concentrations of ions and in particular is low in ions of calcium and magnesium. Soft water naturally occurs where rainfall and the drainage basin of rivers are formed of hard, impervious and calcium poor rocks.

Low or high pH (acidic/basic) - pH is a measure of how acidic/basic water is. The range goes from 0 - 14, with 7 being neutral. pHs of less than 7 indicate acidity, whereas a pH of greater than 7 indicates a base. pH is really a measure of the relative amount of free hydrogen and hydroxyl ions in the water. pH level testing can be performed to measure the pH level of your home water supply.

Arsenic - A primary source of arsenic in drinking water wells is from the water flowing through arsenic-rich rocks and soil. It can be further released into the environment through natural activities such as volcanic action and forest fires, as well as through human actions. Arsenic water tests can be performed to ensure that the levels of arsenic in your water are safe for you and your family.

Manganese - Manganese is a mineral that naturally occurs in rocks and soil and is a normal constituent of the human diet. It exists in well water in CT as a naturally occurring groundwater mineral but may also be present due to underground pollution sources.

Uranium - Uranium occurs naturally in bedrock and groundwater; therefore, wells are susceptible to this common water contaminant. The amount of uranium in bedrock and well water will vary greatly from place to place. Well water testing should be completed to ensure that the levels of uranium in your drinking water are safe for you and your family.

Radon - Found in both water and air, radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes and pose health risks. Both air and water require different tests to accurately measure radon levels to ensure they are within safe limits.