Published on: 28.10.2019
Information produced by Finnish Environment Institute
Well water quality
Even if the water coming out of a well is clear and fresh, it may contain different substances and microbes. The best thing to do is to send a water sample for analysis. What will the analysis tell?
Well water quality should be tested regularly. A limited test should be carried out once every three years, and a more extensive analysis every six years.
A limited test detects the concentrations of certain faecal bacteria in the water, indicating its hygienic quality. Acidity of the water and the concentrations of iron and nitrogen compounds are also determined, which gives a fairly good idea of the quality of drinking water.
The more extensive analysis includes a wider range of substances as well as water hardness. Water from a drilled well is also tested for radon, uranium and arsenic concentrations.
Well water should always be tested if it is suspected of causing symptoms of illness or if there has been essential changes in its colour, taste or smell. The water should also be analysed when the family is expecting a baby, as infants are particularly sensitive to certain substances.
Image: © Merja Otronen, Vastavalo