Bacteria are everywhere.  Most bacteria are not harmful, but some are.  Water borne pathogens include microbes that cause dysentary, cholera, typhoid, and giardia. It is the type and concentration of bacteria which a homeowner must be concerned about.

     Coliform bacteria are a group of bacteria belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae which are used as indicators of the microbial health of drinking water.  This group includes E. Coli, Salmonella, and Shigella.  Although most Coliform bacteria are not disease causing, they are used to indicate the possible presence of other harmful microbes in a water system.

     Regular testing is the only way to ensure that a well is free from potentially harmful microbes.  We recommend that a well be tested at least once a year to ensure that it is safe for human consumption.  By ensuring that Coliform bacteria levels in your well conform to the EPA’s Total Coliform Rule, less than 1.1 cells per 100 milliliters, you are ensuring that your water is bacteriologically safe for your family and friends to drink.

     Our California ELAP certified laboratory offers an array of bacteriological testing for well water, surface water, and wastewater. Along with Coliform testing we also offer the Standard Plate Count to give our customers an idea of the total number of bacteria in their well water. 

     Other contaminates like Mercury, Arsenic, Iron, pH, hardness, nitrates, and other organic and inorganic chemicals can also be tested for in well water and measured against EPA maximum contaminant levels. Just give us a call and ask us how.

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