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Private Well Water Testing

Private Well Ownership

Many homeowners of Doylestown Township rely on private wells for their primary household water source.  Homeowner maintenance of private wells is not only important to their own usage, but also the Township’s understanding of water source purity and integrity.  Following is a guide to understanding Pennsylvania’s well and water standards, potential water contaminants, water testing solutions and homeowner options to remedy water contaminant issues.  

Private Well Water Testing Basics

Well Hygiene Basics: How often should I test my private well water?

Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection recommends testing private well water once per year. Video courtesy of Penn State Extension.

Are there certain events that may prompt testing my private well?

It is also recommended that a homeowner tests their wells when:

  • There are known problems with well water in your area.
  • You have experienced problems near your well (e.g., flooding, land disturbances, and nearby waste disposal sites).
  • You replace or repair any part of your well system.
  • You notice a change in water quality (e.g., taste, color, odor).

What contaminants may be found in private well water?

Here are a few contaminant’s that you may consider testing for:

  • Total Coliforms
  • Nitrates & Nitrites
  • Fecal Coliforms
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
  • Arsenic
  • Microorganism
  • PFOA’s
  • PFOS’s
  • Heavy Metals

Definition of water contaminants can be found on the EPA’s site. Follow this link. 

Are there licensed laboratories in the area that test private well water?

Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection offers a list of laboratories that perform chemical contaminant testing. Follow this link. 

How do I remedy a positive contaminants report?

Featured Video: Solving Water Problems- Video Courtesy of Penn State Extension