CARO Analytical Specializes in Drinking Water Testing
The first step towards protecting public health and the health of your family is understanding the quality of your drinking water. Potential contamination may occur naturally or as a result of human activity. The following information will assist you in making the appropriate water testing decision.
What Contaminants Commonly Exist in Drinking Water?
•Total coliforms and E. coli can be present as a result of nearby septic systems, sewage discharges, and domestic or wild animal fecal matter.
• Heavy Metals naturally occur in groundwater in many regions. Uranium and Arsenic are common metals of concerns in the BC interior. Lead and Copper can be a concerns in homes with brass fixtures, lead solder and copper pipes.
• Turbidity assesses suspended particle in the water. These particles can contain bacteria and viruses. Health risks increases as turbidity rises.
• Agricultural Contamination from nearby farming activities may include nitrogen compounds (nitrite and nitrate) and pesticides or herbicides.
• Fluoride occurs naturally in groundwater at concentrations that can cause dental fluorosis: yellowing of teeth, pitting and alteration of tooth enamel. High fluoride levels are known in parts of the Okanagan and Shuswap regions of BC.
• Aesthetic concerns related to hardness, iron, manganese, sodium and sulfide can affect water suitability for washing; cause staining of plumbing fixtures; and cause odours. These concerns are common groundwater concerns throughout BC.
• For other parameters that may be potential concerns, please contact the lab directly.
How Often Should I Test My Drinking water?
• Private Wells - The BCMOE recommends that private well owners have their water tested annually for total coliforms and E coli.
• Water Systems – The BCMOE requires that water systems with <5000 connection must have 4 samples tested per month for total coliform and E coli.
• Additional Testing - It is recommended that comprehensive chemical analysis be conducted for all new drinking water wells and after that periodically. Interior Health’s “Should I Get my Drinking Water Tested?” program provides a recommended general assessment of drinking water quality for most healthy persons.