SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/home-a-well-annual

How often should you test a private well for bacteria, nitrates and pH?

Annually.

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  1. Once a year ✔
  2. Once every 20 years
  3. Only when you buy the house

Why: EPA says to test your private well annually for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids and pH. Test more often for children, older adults or pregnancy, or after floods and repairs.

Huh, didn't know that: Use only laboratories certified for drinking water testing. Your local health department may offer testing for free.

The dad joke
Why did the professor wade into the pool? To test the water.
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References

Answer: Once a year. EPA says to test your private well annually for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids and pH. Test more often for children, older adults or pregnancy, or after floods and repairs.

  1. EPA: Protect Your Home's Water (private wells) www.epa.gov/privatewells/protect-your-homes-water
    Test your private well annually for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH levels.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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