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Frequently Asked Questions?

 

 

 


 

Should I have my water tested?

 

 

 

How safe is my drinking water?

Very safe.  To protect your health, both the US EPA and the Mass. Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) maintain exacting standards.  DEP requires your local water supplier to perform ongoing tests for the presence of bacteria, lead and other heavy metals, herbicides and pesticides and industrial solvents.  If testing reveals an exceedance of a federal standard, the water supplier is required to notify customers through local news media.  If bacteria or chemicals are found in levels that pose a threat to your health, the water supply is treated to remove the contaminants or taken out of service if the problem cannot be solved immediately. 


 

 

 

Where does my water come from? 

That depends on where you live.  In some communities, drinking water comes from a reservoir that is fed by rivers and streams.  In others, it comes from wells that pump groundwater from aquifers.  There are also some people whose water comes from private wells, which neither DEP nor EPA regulate.  To learn more about where your water comes from, contact your local water supplier.  If you use a private well, make sure you have the water sampled and tested periodically. 

[above excerpted from the Mass. DEP web-site: http://www.state.ma.us/dep/consumer/drink.htm]

 

 


 

My well was installed by a well driller who tested it when he installed it, and he says the water is great!  Why should I test it now?

Although the water may have been “great” when it was installed, over time contaminants can seep into your ground water and can affect the quality of your water.  It is suggested that you test your water periodically. 

 

 



 

How do I take a sample? 


 

 

 

What is included in a “standard” drinking water test? 


 

 

 

What happens if my water does not “pass?” 

Coming soon our on line pamphlet: Interpreting bacteriological drinking water test results and correcting unsatisfactory water.

 

 


 

What about bottled water and home water treatment devices?

Tap water sometimes looks, smells or tastes funny.  Most often, that is because there has been a heavy algae bloom on the reservoir your water comes from, or excess iron or manganese has accumulated in the lines that deliver it to your home.  While these substances may affect your water’s appearance, smell or taste, they are not harmful to your health.  Bottled water may taste better than the water that comes out of your tap, but it’s a lot more expensive and isn’t necessarily “healthier.”  Home water treatment devices, such as filters, certainly can make tap water taste better - but they can also breed bacteria if not properly maintained.  Before investing in a treatment device, try chilling your water.  Many people find that does the trick.  If you decide to listen to a sales pitch for bottled water or a filtration unit, remember that it’s against the law for anyone other than a state certified laboratory to test your water for bacteria or chemicals. 

[above excerpted from the Mass. DEP web-site: http://www.state.ma.us/dep/consumer/drink.htm]

 

 

 

 


 

I can get a free water test from companies who sell filters.  Why should I pay for a test? 

Those companies are in the business of selling water filters.  We look on it as “the fox watching the henhouse.”    It is best to use an independent, certified lab.  Analytical Balance does not sell water treatment products, and we are not affiliated with anyone who does.  We are able to direct you to reputable persons in this field - should you have the need.