After hearing for years about the horrors for the residents of Flint, Michigan, and their water problems, it probably gave you pause to think about your own water.
How can you know your water is safe to drink? Who tests it to make sure? Can you trust them to tell you the truth?
These are probably all questions you have pondered about your own water.
Whether your water comes from a well or from a city water source, you want to be sure it is safer for your family to use and drink.
Read on to learn about the five reasons to consider a water test for your water.
1. Recurring Illness for Family Members
If your family is suddenly experiencing an illness, you should take notice.
Gastrointestinal issues can be caused by coliform bacteria that can be in your water.
If well water is exposed to repeated animal waste, the bacteria from the waste can get into the water. While small amounts won’t cause illness, it can also cause problems if you drink it.
2. Live Near Potential Pollutants
You should consider water testing if your home is near a location that would get pollutants in the water.
If your home is near land used for agricultural purposes, you should do some water testing. The water might contain nitrates, pesticides, and coliform bacteria from fertilizers and pesticides used for farming.
Homes near gas stations might be exposed to leaks from underground tanks. They should test for organic compounds (VOCs) that could get poisons into your water.
3. Older Home With Possible Lead Pipes
The water in Flint became polluted when untreated water from the Flint River went through old pipes.
The water corroded the pipes and lead went into the water.
If you have old pipes from either your city or in your home, you should test your water to make sure there is no corrosion in the pipes releasing lead into your water.
4. Itchy Skin and Breakouts
How your body reacts to your water is a good indicator of a problem.
If suddenly you find your skin or scalp are reacting with bumps, red spots, or getting scaly, you could have a problem with your water.
If there are problems with your water, you might also notice scaly residue left behind on your sinks.
5. Foul Smell, Bad-Colored Water, or Stains From Water
Again, in Flint, the residents knew there were problems with the water long before officials were willing to acknowledge the issues.
The water had turned a dark, orange, rusty-looking color. It also had a foul smell.
If your water is coming out of the faucet with a sulfur or rotten eggs smell, there is a problem. Likewise, if the water is anything but clear, there is a problem.
Your water should not smell or be anything but clear. If it is either or both of those things, you need a water test.
Get These Water Tests for Your Home Today
There is no good reason not to err on the side of caution.
If you are concerned about your water, it is simple enough to run an at-home water test to check for problems.
You can also call in the professionals whose job is to run tests for all sorts of potential pollutants that might show up in your water.
For more information on our water testing services, contact us today.
