The Critical Need for Private Well Water Testing

More than 40 million Americans rely on private wells for their drinking water. Yet, many of those homeowners simply assume the water is safe. The reality is, without regular testing, families could be consuming water that carries serious health risks—without ever knowing it.

The Testing Gap: A False Sense of Security

In most cases, the only time well water gets tested is during a property sale. Lenders usually require a basic bacteria test before closing, and in some states, testing is also required before renting. But once the deal is done, testing often stops. That one-time snapshot gives homeowners confidence that their water is fine, even though conditions may change dramatically over time.

Why Water Quality Doesn’t Stay the Same

Groundwater is dynamic. Seasonal changes, nearby farming, road work, construction, and even the slow aging of a well can alter water quality. A clean report from three years ago says nothing about what’s coming out of the tap today.

Imagine a family that bought a home with a “clean” well test. A few years later, fertilizer use from a nearby farm increases, and salt from winter road treatment seeps into the groundwater. Day after day, the family drinks water that looks, smells, and tastes normal—yet carries invisible risks.

The Invisible Contaminants

Unlike cloudy or bad-smelling water, many harmful contaminants leave no warning signs. A few of the most concerning include:

• PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”) – These man-made compounds don’t break down naturally and accumulate in the body over time. Even at low levels, PFAS are tied to cancer, liver problems, and immune issues. They’ve been found across much of the U.S., but most well owners have never tested for them.
• Uranium – Naturally occurring in parts of the western and northeastern U.S., uranium in drinking water increases risks of kidney disease and cancer. It has no taste or odor, so you’d never know it’s there without testing.
• Arsenic – Millions of wells contain arsenic, which can lead to skin changes, cardiovascular disease, and various cancers after years of exposure. The symptoms are slow to show, which makes early detection through testing all the more important.

Other culprits include nitrates, lead, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), radium, radon, coliform bacteria, manganese, sulfur compounds, and agricultural chemicals.

Why Regular Testing Makes Business Sense Too

For water treatment dealers, testing isn’t just about health—it’s also good business. A regular testing program lets you anticipate problems and offer solutions before customers notice anything wrong. Instead of waiting for emergency calls about strange tastes or sick family members, dealers can step in early, build trust, and strengthen long-term relationships.

Testing frequency depends on risk. For example:

• Homes near farms should test more often for nitrates and pesticides.
• Houses close to industrial sites should check for VOCs.
• Older homes with original plumbing may need frequent lead testing.
• Wells near airports, military bases, or large farms should monitor for PFAS more than once a year.

From Crisis Response to Prevention

When testing becomes routine, homeowners get peace of mind, families avoid preventable health risks, and water professionals move from “problem fixers” to trusted partners. There are reliable treatment options for almost every type of contaminant, but you can’t treat what you don’t test.

Common Questions About Well Water Testing

How often should private wells be tested?
At minimum, test once a year for bacteria and nitrates. Families with infants, pregnant women, or elderly residents should test more often. Broader chemical testing is recommended every 3–5 years, or sooner if nearby land use changes. PFAS testing should be more frequent in high-risk areas.

What’s the difference between basic and comprehensive testing?
Basic testing usually checks for bacteria, pH, and a handful of contaminants. Comprehensive testing covers dozens of substances—heavy metals, VOCs, PFAS, and radioactive elements. Which route to take depends on your location, risk level, and budget.

Can homeowners test the water themselves?
DIY kits can cover the basics, but certified lab testing is far more reliable. Labs follow strict sample handling and analysis protocols to deliver accurate results. Water dealers can also help ensure samples are collected and processed correctly.

What if a contaminant is detected?
The solution depends on the contaminant and its concentration. Some require immediate disinfection or filtration, while others need longer-term treatment strategies. Professional guidance is key.

How much does testing cost?
Comprehensive testing typically runs $300–$800 depending on the scope and location. While that may sound like a lot, it’s small compared to the potential health costs—or the impact on property value—of ignoring water quality. Many labs offer package pricing for routine customers.

Safe water shouldn’t be a gamble. With regular testing, families can drink confidently, and water professionals can build stronger, more proactive relationships with their communities.

Explore ResinTech's in-house lab testing services.