Everyone has a source of water in their home whether it’s through the city, well, or spring-fed options. Each can have its own collection of water issues. There are telltale signs that will let you know there are problems. Also, there are also ways to test the water. This is important in determining its pH value.
Signs of Water Issues
There are several signs to look for that indicate water concerns in your home according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
- Taste
- Color
- Odor
- Staining or clothes or fixtures.
Other considerations noted by the EPA include how close your well is to the septic system, if applicable, and the type of materials used in your home’s plumbing.
Reasons to Test the Water
Whether we’re bathing in it, drinking it, cooking with it, or watering our vegetable garden with it, water has chemical substances, bacteria, and organisms that can be harmful to health.
Water should be tested at least every six months to check for unhealthy bacteria and every year, or so, to check for chemicals.
Checking the water includes city water, well or spring water that is or is not equipped with a pump system.
Testing the Water
Check with your health department about kits to check for water issues. In some cities, county health department staff help with testing the sample. If not, contact the Safe Drinking Water Hotline for state-certified labs.
If a kit is not available, you can still test the water by using a sterile 16 oz. container. Let the water run from the faucet for at least 10 to 15 minutes before taking a sample.
Fill the container slowly to prevent unnecessary air and to avoiding splashing. You want a slow, steady stream of water filling the container.
Take the sample to the lab or use whatever instructions for delivering the water sample. Results usually are available in about 24 hours.
If testing for water issues yourself is not an option, contact a local plumbing company that offers the service.
pH Level and Testing
From the USGS Water Science School, “pH is a measure of how acidic/basic water is. The range goes from 0 – 14 with 7 being neutral.”
If less than 7, it indicates acidity. Greater than 7 indicates a base reading. A change in the number means something has changed in the chemical balance by 10 times. According to the USGS, “Water with a pH of five is ten times more acidic than water having a pH of six.
Testing for pH levels is easy using one of the following methods.
- Litmus paper strips
- Digital meter
- Reagent drops
For answers to all of your questions, contact The Pink Plumber, today.
