Water quality isn't something to be taken for granted, especially for people who have a well, spring or other private water supply, says Eric Norland, state specialist in natural resources with the Ohio State University Extension. About 2 million Ohio households aren't connected to a community water system and must supply their own water, he says.
"People who have a private water supply are their own water department," Norland says. "They're responsible for the safety of their water and should have it tested annually." Testing doesn't have to be done for every possible contaminant, Norland, says. That would be expensive. But it's important to perform routine tests that indicate possible contamination.
"Begin by testing for total coliform bacteria, nitrate, pH, and total dissolved solids," Norland says. "If results indicate a problem, more specific testing can be done." If there is a problem, Norland says, you can deal with it in four ways:
- BETTER PROTECT the water supply. For example, a rainwater cistern without gutter guards and a roof washer isn't providing enough protection.
- ELIMINATE the source of contamination. For example, a well with a high coliform bacteria count could be receiving surface water. Keep it out by sealing the well properly.
- GET a new water supply. That could be as simple as purchasing bottled water or as intensive as drilling a new well.
- TREAT the water. This could be accomplished by boiling it, chlorinating it or purchasing water treatment equipment.
In maintaining a private water supply, additional precautions should be taken, Norland says.
- Test your water whenever you suspect a problem or a change in quality.
- Keep good records. If you ever need to prove that something or someone has ruined your water, you'll have to prove it was OK at one time.
- Have your water tested at an Ohio EPA-certified laboratory, and follow the lab's instructions to get reliable results.
