Well Water and City Water Testing Explained
Testing helps identify water quality issues so the correct treatment solution can be recommended. Testing is the foundation of proper water treatment and prevents guesswork. This article explains how PC Testing works for both well water and municipal city water, and why each requires a different approach.
Why Water Testing Matters
Water sources vary widely across the country. Without testing, it is impossible to know what is actually present in the water.
Testing allows technicians to:
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Identify contaminants and problem areas
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Avoid under treating or over treating water
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Recommend solutions based on real data
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Build trust through education, not assumptions
Well Water Testing
Well water testing should always be done on an individual basis. Every well is different, even within the same area.
How Well Water Testing Works
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Water is collected directly from the well head
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A questionnaire is completed to provide background information
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Samples are analyzed for a wide range of common water quality factors
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Results are reviewed to guide treatment recommendations
What Is Not Included in Standard Testing
Bacteria and viruses are not included in standard lab testing because they may not survive transit, which can lead to inaccurate results.
If biological concerns exist, a UV system paired with fine micron filtration is commonly recommended to support effective treatment.
City Water Testing
City water testing focuses on two common nationwide concerns:
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Chlorine or chloramine
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Water hardness
Chlorine and Chloramine Testing
Municipal water is often disinfected using chlorine or chloramine. Chloramine is a combination of chlorine and ammonia and does not off gas as easily, making it harder to detect by smell.
A dedicated test kit is used to measure total chlorine, which includes both free chlorine and chloramine.
Best Practices for Accurate Chlorine Testing
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Run the water for about one minute before sampling
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Use fresh water pulled directly from the main line
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Follow test kit instructions carefully
Hardness Testing
Hard water is present in a large portion of the United States.
Common signs of hard water include:
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Scale buildup on fixtures and aerators
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Spotting on shower doors
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Reduced lifespan of plumbing components
Hardness testing confirms visible signs and supports proper treatment recommendations.
Using Testing as a Conversation Tool
Testing provides a natural way to discuss water treatment without being forceful.
A simple approach:
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Perform a chlorine and hardness test
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Offer to share results if the homeowner is interested
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Let curiosity guide the conversation
If a homeowner is not interested in the results, they are unlikely to move forward. Most homeowners, however, want to understand what is in their water once testing is complete.
Key Takeaway
Testing is one of the most effective tools for identifying water quality issues and guiding proper water treatment solutions. Whether working with well water or city water, testing provides clarity and confidence for both technicians and homeowners.
Need Help
For questions about testing procedures or interpreting results, contact Plumber’s Choice Water support or your Flow Tech representative.