Module 5 — Monitoring and Maintenance of Your Water Well
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Water Quality Measurements
Noting changes in water quality is an effective way to monitor your water well. Aquifer
contamination, problems with a well's structure, or lack of routine maintenance could each
lead to a change in water quality.
Use the following checklist as a starting point to determine if a problem exists.
Checklist to Determine a Water Quality Problem
Unpleasant odour or taste
Red discoloration on plumbing fixtures and fabric
Cloudy, dirty water
Soap curd on dishes and fabrics
Scale in pipes and water heater
Salty alkali taste
Some changes in water quality are not detected by changes in taste, smell or appearance.
For this reason it is important to sample and analyze your water on a routine basis.
Bacteriological Analysis
Bacteriological analysis determines the total coliform and faecal coliform bacteria in the
water. Coliform bacteria are usually present in soil and surface water. Faecal coliform are
present in animal and human waste. Both are indicator organisms for the potential presence
of pathogenic (disease causing) bacteria.
A bacteriological analysis does not test for iron bacteria or sulphate-reducing bacteria
which are commonly found in well water. A bacteriological analysis should be done annually.
Chemical Analysis
A routine chemical analysis tests for the most common chemical parameters found in
water, such as iron, sodium, sulfates, nitrates and nitrites. In some cases, you may need to
request testing for additional parameters when a regional health concern is identified (such
as arsenic or fluoride).
A routine chemical analysis should be done
every two to five years.
A bacteriological analysis can be done for
minimal cost through your local health unit.
This should be done annually.