43 Million Americans. Zero EPA Protection.
Approximately 23 million US households — 43 million people — rely on private wells for drinking water. The Safe Drinking Water Act does not regulate private wells. The EPA does not test, monitor, or set standards for your well. Annual testing is entirely your responsibility — and your right to safe water.
The EPA Does Not Regulate Private Wells
Unlike public water systems, private wells are not subject to EPA standards, testing requirements, or Consumer Confidence Reports. Some states have limited well regulations, but most do not. This means:
- • No one is testing your water unless you do
- • Contaminants like arsenic have no taste, smell, or color
- • Nearby construction, farming, or industry can change your water quality
- • Annual testing is the only way to know your water is safe
Annual Testing Guide
At minimum, test every year for bacteria and nitrate. Test every 3–5 years for arsenic, lead, and pH. If you live near potential contamination sources, add PFAS testing.
Total Coliform & E. coli
AnnualBacterial contamination — the most common well problem. Indicates surface water intrusion or septic leakage.
Nitrate
AnnualEspecially dangerous for infants under 6 months (blue baby syndrome). Enters via fertilizer runoff and septic systems.
Arsenic
Every 3–5 yearsNaturally occurring in many regions. No taste, smell, or color — only a lab test can detect it.
Lead
Every 3–5 yearsLeaches from plumbing and fixtures. Test at the tap, not the wellhead.
pH
AnnualLow pH (acidic water) corrodes pipes and leaches metals. High pH can cause scaling. Ideal range: 6.5–8.5.
PFAS
Once, then every 5 yearsIf you live near an airport, military base, or industrial area, test for PFAS. No EPA requirement for private wells.
Find a Certified Lab
Always use a state-certified laboratory. Home test strips can give rough estimates, but only certified lab results are legally defensible and accurate enough for health decisions.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on what your test finds. Never install a system without test results — the wrong system can make some problems worse.
| Contaminant | Treatment Method | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| Bacteria | UV disinfection or chlorination | Continuous treatment required. Shock chlorination for one-time contamination. |
| Nitrate | Ion exchange or reverse osmosis | Boiling does NOT remove nitrates — it concentrates them. |
| Arsenic | Reverse osmosis or adsorptive media | Test for arsenic III vs. V to choose the right system. |
| Lead | NSF-53 carbon filter or RO | Test at the tap, not the wellhead. Replace fixtures if lead is from plumbing. |
| PFAS | Reverse osmosis or GAC | If you live near a contamination source, test even without symptoms. |
| Hardness / pH | Neutralizing filter or water softener | Address pH before installing other treatment — acidic water corrodes systems. |
Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
Well water quality changes with the seasons. Follow this calendar to stay ahead of problems.
Spring
- Test for bacteria and nitrate
- Inspect well cap for winter damage
- Check for flooding around wellhead
- Trim vegetation away from well casing
Summer
- Test pH if water tastes or looks different
- Check for agricultural runoff after heavy rain
- Inspect pressure tank performance
- Clean faucet aerators
Fall
- Test for arsenic and lead (every 3–5 years)
- Ensure well cap is sealed before winter
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Service water treatment systems
Winter
- Monitor for frozen pipes
- Check water pressure (low pressure may indicate freezing)
- Keep emergency water supply on hand
- Watch for salt contamination near roads
Explore the Well Map
See known contamination hotspots and community-submitted well data on our interactive map. Find your county, check nearby risks, and compare your results with neighbors.
When was your well last tested?
If you can't remember, it's time. Order a certified test kit today.
Order a Test Kit