Frequently Asked Questions:
What does the Water Quality Kit test for?
Our best value kit is our water quality test. This package deal tests for all the Minnesota Department of Health safe drinking water requirements plus other testing you may need to know when purchasing a water treatment system. The water quality kit tests for: Total Coliform, Sodium, Calcium, Magnesium, pH, Total Hardness, Conductivity, Iron, Total Dissolved Solids, Nitrate, Manganese, Sulfate, Chloride, Arsenic, and Lead. Refer to EPA Guidelines for Human Consumption.
I am purchasing a new water softener system, what should I test for, and what are the EPA recommended guidelines for these analytes?
Water softeners are designed to decrease levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium, and sulfate. They also optimize pH, hardness, and conductivity levels. We recommend our Water Softener Performance Kit to help determine what type of softener system and settings you need. Refer to EPA Guidelines for Human Consumption.
Why does my water smell?
There could be several different reasons your water smells; however, the most common cause for foul smelling drinking water is often by sulfate-reducing bacteria and iron-related bacteria.
Is there a test that checks for all water quality issues?
No, there is no instrument out there that does that type of full spectrum testing.
How do I collect a water sample to test for coliform bacteria?
Refer to our helpful video on the proper collection method.
How do you recommend I manage my well.
As a private well owner, you are responsible for regularly testing your well water. Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) provides helpful recommendations.
What are the safe limits for the common contaminants in drinking water?
The Minnesota Department of Health provides a comprehensive list of contaminants and their respective safe drinking water limits for your reference.
What do I do if my water tested above 15ppb for lead?
Refer to the Minnesota Department of Health for guidance.
What causes the rotten-egg smell in my water?
Hydrogen sulfide gas is the most common cause of the smell. It is produced by sulfur bacteria that occur naturally in groundwater. Filters can be used to rid the water of the smell such as: a carbon filter, an oxidizing filter, or an oxidation-filtration system. Refer to the Department of Health for additional information.
What do I do if my water tested above 10ppb for arsenic?
Refer to the Minnesota Department of Health for guidance on water treatment units that reduce arsenic in water.
How do I collect a water sample for arsenic testing?
Fill a non-sterile bottle with 2 cups of water from any cold water faucet. Deliver to lab within 48 hours. Arsenic levels must be less than 10ppb to be within acceptable limits.
What do I do if my water has tested above 10 ppm for nitrates?
Refer to the Centers for Disease Control for guidance on how to remove nitrate from your drinking water.
How do I collect a water sample for nitrate testing?
Fill a non-sterile bottle with at least 1 cup of water from any cold faucet. Deliver to lab within 30 hours. Nitrate levels must be less than 10ppm to be within acceptable limits.
My well tested positive for Coliform bacteria. What do I do now?
Disinfect your well. Refer to the Minnesota Department of Health Instructions for well disinfection.
How do I collect a water sample for lead testing?
Please refer to this helpful video.
I have a well, what does a well look like?
Refer to our shallow and deep well diagrams.
