Why Test at All?
Many of the things that matter most in well water, like bacteria, nitrate, arsenic, radon and lead, have no taste, smell or color. The only way to know is a lab test. In New York, look for a lab certified by the Department of Health's Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP). The Orange County Department of Health is also a good starting point for local guidance on private wells.
A Sensible Testing Schedule
| When | What to test |
|---|---|
| Every year | Total coliform / E. coli bacteria. Many people add nitrate. |
| Every few years | A broader panel: hardness, pH, iron, manganese, sodium, chloride, lead, arsenic and others the lab recommends |
| Buying or selling | Whatever your lender requires, plus a broader panel for your own peace of mind |
| After a change | Flooding, well or pump work, a new baby in the home, or any change in taste, smell or clarity |
Local Things to Ask About
- Bedrock wells in the Highlands (Monroe, NY 10950, Woodbury, Warwick, Harriman): ask about radon and uranium in water
- Near farmland (Florida, Pine Island, parts of Goshen and Chester): nitrate
- Near busy salted roads (Route 17, I-84, Route 211, Route 300 corridors): sodium and chloride
- Older homes: lead, especially if the water is corrosive (low pH)
- Orange or black stains, metallic taste: iron and manganese
Taking a Good Sample
Follow the lab's instructions exactly. Bacteria samples use a sterile bottle, usually taken from a cold tap with the aerator removed, and need to reach the lab within a set time. A bad sample can mean a false positive and a needless treatment bill.
After the Results
Compare results to the limits printed on the report. Only treat what's actually over a limit or causing a real nuisance. If bacteria comes back positive, find the cause (cap, casing, grading, a nearby septic system) before or alongside disinfection, then retest. See testing & treatment options.
Questions
Can I test my own well water?
Yes. Many certified labs sell sampling kits with instructions. A well pro can also take the sample, which helps when the results are needed for a sale.
Is a free water test from a dealer good enough?
In-home dealer tests can be useful for hardness or iron, but they're not a substitute for a certified lab test for safety items like bacteria, nitrate, lead or arsenic.
More Guides
Want a Pro to Take a Look?
Call or send the form with your town and what you're seeing.
- Tell us your town and whether you have any water at all
- Mention what you've noticed: clicking, sputtering, cloudy or smelly water
- A local well pro calls back and confirms availability and a typical price range