What are basic drinking water tests?

Basic drinking water tests check water for levels of coliform bacteria, sodium, fluoride, iron and other substances. These substances are potentially harmful or may affect the taste of the water, depending on their levels.

Testing is recommended at least annually for residential drinking water, and wells should be tested at least once. Advanced testing checks for toxic substances like arsenic, lead and mercury, which can be fatal or cause permanent health problems when located in drinking water. Microscopic exams may also be conducted on drinking water, and these tests can reveal the presence of microscopic organisms in the water supply.