Many buyers do not consider water testing when purchasing a home in Virginia; however, many homes have well water, which means the city does not monitor their water quality. Well water has many benefits, but without regular testing, it becomes a safety risk. Learn how and when to test your water, and what to look for when the results come back.
Well I Outta
Many homes in Southwest Virginia have their own wells. This can be a really cool feature of a home, or a logistical nightmare. Wells offer a water source that is not tied to the city water supply, and many people rave about the fresh taste that well water offers. They aren’t all sunshine and rainbows, however, as bacteria and chemicals can seep into your well, and there is no outside agency responsible for monitoring it. The CDC recommends testing your well water yearly to ensure that it continues to be safe to drink.
What Are We Looking for?
Water testing is not one-size-fits-all, but the basic yearly test recommended by the CDC looks for levels of coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and the pH level. If this testing is not rigorous enough for you, you can contact the local health department to find out what other contaminants are common in the area.
Alt text: Routine water testing should be done yearly to ensure that it is safe to drink. –water testing home purchase Virginia
Alt description: Test tubes are pictured with multiple colored liquids inside. A sink is in the background, implying that the home is having its water quality tested. — water testing home purchase Virginia
Chemical Free, Contamination Station
City water offers the protections of fluoride and chlorine to improve your dental health and prevent bacterial growth, respectively. Many people secondarily filter out these chemicals for a fresher taste, but there is no harm in leaving them in. The city also is responsible for testing and monitoring the water regularly, checking it for E. Coli, lead, and PFAS, or forever chemicals, as they have been not so lovingly nicknamed. Well water will need to be carefully monitored and treated by the homeowner, making it more high-maintenance.
Treat Me Well
The results of your water test will let you know what your well needs to be treated for. If it comes back that it is contaminated with E. coli, you will need to identify the source of the bacteria, such as animal or human fecal waste, and then shock the well with chlorine to kill the bacteria that is already present.
Virginia has a high prevalence of corrosive groundwater. If the water sample is positive for lead, your well should be inspected for lead parts, and a reverse osmosis system can be installed to ensure proper filtration.
Water is Life
Humans need water to live. Even if you don’t have a well, it is a good idea to get your water tested anyway, as the pipes in your home can sometimes contaminate your water. Getting your water tested yearly is a great way to prevent costly health issues and ensure that your family continues to drink only clean, fresh water. Most contaminants are easily treatable, and once it has been tested the first time, you will have a better idea of what your water tends to get contaminated with.
Know What You’re Getting Into with Water Testing for Your Home Purchase
Before you purchase a home in Virginia, get your water tested as part of your inspection, so that you know the quality of your water. This can save you future headaches, as you can include fixing all of the issues in your buyer’s agreement. Detail View Home Inspections offers comprehensive well inspection and water testing services; schedule yours today!