What To Do When the Bacteria Test Comes Back High

Performing a water potability test is part of the water system evaluation. The potability reports on three bacteria. The first is Total Coliform and the second and third are E.coli and Fecal E.coli.

A few ways bacteria can make its way into your well include:

• An unused well develops standing water
• A loose well cap or cracks in the pipe
• Recent well, pump, or plumbing system work
• A septic system is leaching into the water

If a well is unused for any length of time, it is normal for the bacterial test to be elevated. Disinfecting the well can be performed by the homeowner or a service company. The process takes 6 days and is an involved process.

First, disinfectant is put in the well and water is run. This treated water is left in the pipes overnight. Then water must be run for 5 days to flush the well. The follow up water test can be performed on day 6.

Testing for lead, nitrates and nitrites are often required of some new homebuyers and are always good for the homeowner to know for their own family’s health.

TK Home Inspection inspectors are H2O licensed. We offer water testing, water system evaluations, septic inspections, home inspections, radon testing, indoor air quality testing, pest inspections, and more. Give us a call at 330.361.5505 or go online at www.tkhomeinspection.com/book-now to schedule your inspections today.