Water is one of the few things we can’t live without. People can’t live more than 24 to 48 hours without safe, clean water. In some places that can be a challenge. If you live outside of the reach of municipal water systems, you probably rely on a well for your drinking, cooking and household water. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 14 percent of households (about 15 million households) get their water this way. Wells are deep holes with pumps attached to access pockets of ground water deep below the surface. These resources are replenished by rain, irrigation and run off. However, wells can be subject to contaminants found in the ground and surrounding water sources. They can also be time-consuming to maintain.
Common well contaminants and maintenance concerns
Private wells can be contaminated by a number of sources. The EPA lists six major categories of well contaminants. They are heavy metals, microbiologicals, radionuclides, organic chemicals, fluoride and nitrates. As a private well owner, you are responsible for keeping up the quality of the water you get from your well. While most townships and states have rules regarding the construction of a well, few have ordinances regarding water quality.
To help maintain your well drinking water and to catch any potential problem early, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends having your well tested at least once a year for nitrates, coliform bacteria, pH levels and dissolved solids. Of course, you should have this done more often if you notice a change in the color or taste of your water or if there are known problems with wells in your area.
If you reside in the US, you can find a testing company near you by calling the EPA Safe Water Drinking Hotline at (800) 426-4791 or by contacting your local health department.
For residents in Canada you can access multiple departments at https://www.ontario.ca/page/drinking-water or you can call the hotline directly 1-866-793-2588
Solving well quality issues with a Berkey water filter system
A Berkey water filtration system is a great way to make sure that the water your family is drinking is safe from contaminants. This gravity-fed system removes a large variety of contaminants, ranging from toxic chemicals and minerals to pathogenic bacteria and viruses. However, it leaves the healthy minerals your body needs in place. This system is affordable, portable and will last between five and eight years with regular use.
To learn more about getting a Berkey water filter for your household and enjoying a constant, reliable, pure water source for your family and friends, contact Conscious Water at (insert contact info). Our mission is for everyone to have a safe, reliable water source, at home, when you travel and when you are out in nature.
