Pennsylvania Private Water: What Penn State Extension Says to Test
Pennsylvania Private Water: What Penn State Extension Says to Test
Penn State Extension says testing a private supply (well, spring or cistern) is the homeowner's responsibility because no government program routinely tests them. It says roughly half have never been tested and about half fail at least one drinking water standard.
Schedule
- Every year: total coliform bacteria and E. coli. E. coli signals human or animal waste.
- Every three years: pH and total dissolved solids (TDS). The guide flags pH below 6.5 or above 8.5, and TDS above 500 mg/L, as concerns.
- By land use: for example nitrate near septic systems or farms; chloride and barium near gas or oil drilling; iron, manganese and sulfate near mining.
Symptoms
Orange-brown or black stains: iron or manganese. White film or heater damage: hardness. Salty taste: chloride. Blue-green stains: pH, copper, lead.
Labs and sampling
Use a certified lab; the PA DEP publishes a list of accredited labs. Bacteria samples need a sterile container, kept cool and delivered within 24 hours. Lead and copper need a first-draw morning sample after at least 12 hours of standing.
Not verified: state well-construction or pump rules in Pennsylvania; ask a licensed driller. Pump and filter choice should follow test results.
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General information only. Not plumbing, legal or code advice. Confirm with a licensed professional and your local authority.