Full service analytical/
environmental laboratory
Water Analysis
Chemistry
Inorganics - Organics
Microbiology
Coliforms - E. coli
Physical
Residue (solids) - Turbidity
Sampling Services
Microbiology
Private Well Testing - Coliforms
Water - Food - Beverage
Listeria - Salmonella - E. coli O157:H7 - HACCP
MD State Certified Water Quality Laboratory #133
Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 8:00AM - 4:00PM
Coliform Bacteria are naturally occurring, rod shaped microorganisms which are widely distributed in nature. They exist in soil, on skin, in rivers, lakes and streams. One type of coliform - the fecal coliform - is found in the intestinal tract of man and animals. The bacteria, E. coli is a member of the fecal coliform group.
Coliforms are easily detected and their presence or absence has been used extensively in determining water quality. If a well is used for a water supply it is recommended to have the water tested at least annually for coliform bacteria. If a spring is used, the water should be checked at least quarterly, or whenever there is a change in the taste, color or odor of the water.
How do bacteria get into my well?
Wells may become contaminated through missing or defective well caps, defective seals around wires and pipes, inadequate or cracked casing, a leaking pit-less adapter - or any way in which surface water may enter.
If I have bacteria in my water, will it make me sick?
Coliform bacteria are "indicator" organisms and are not always harmful themselves. Because some are found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals, the presence of coliforms may indicate that other, more harmful organisms may also be present. The more harmful bacteria associated with coliforms may cause disease. Usually in the form of gastro-intestinal problems. Therefore, water which has tested positive for coliforms should not be considered safe for drinking.
What can I do if I have bacteria in my water?
First of all, disinfect your well. Most drilled wells with adequate casing and no leaks can be disinfected. If, after repeated chlorinations, there are still bacteria present, options are: a) drilling a new well or b) treating the water with a purification device, such as a UV light, chlorinator or ozonator. See the method fro disinfecting your well under CHLORINATION PROCEDURE.
Unlike municipal systems, which are monitored routinely, many privately owned wells are rarely tested after the initial check. Because sensory clues are often absent in cases of water pollution, it is a good idea to have a routine testing program for your water supply.
1413 Old Taneytown Rd.
Westminster, MD 21158
410-848-1014
410-876-4554
Fax 410-876-0298
info@ fval.com
Your local,
community laboratory...
Custom Quotes Available
What to Test For
Private Wells
at a minimum test for:
E. coli
Test annually, or if there is
a change in the taste, color or
odor of the water.
This group of tests is called
a potability profile and gives
an indication of basic
water quality.
If you have a older well
or spring, the water should
be examined more frequently.
If you detect a chemical or petroleum odor or have a drinking water well in the vicinity of a fuel spill, have your water checked for VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds).
What the area around a well is used for will help in det-ermining what some potential candidates for testing will be.
For example, well owners near orchards or golf courses may wish to check for pesticide and herbicide residue.
Old landfills are often are a source of groundwater cont-amination.
Some contaminants may be naturally occurring such as radon, radium and arsenic.
Some geographical areas are more affected than others.
The Internet is a good resource for information on water quality.
Check out www.epa.gov
Remember April 22nd is the
40th Anniversary of Earth Day
Discounts on all private well tests
during the month of April
Look for FVAL at the MD Heartland Sustainable Living Fair on May 22nd at the Carroll County Farm Museum
Other Microbiological Tests:
Aerobic Plate Counts - measures a total amount of bacteria which utilize oxygen.
