Understanding Your Rural Property's Water Quality Test
If you own a rural property in Alberta, ensuring the safety and quality of your drinking water is crucial. Water quality testing isn't just a real estate requirement—it's essential for your family's health and your property's value. Let's dive into what those test results mean and how to address any concerns they reveal.
Key Testing Parameters
Bacterial Content and Contamination Risks
One of the most critical aspects of water testing is checking for bacterial contamination. The presence of total coliform bacteria can indicate potential microbial contamination. If any total coliform is detected, your water should be retested and additionally checked for fecal coliform and E. coli.
Mineral Content and Hardness Levels
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) or conductivity measurements can identify changes in water quality. Significant changes in TDS (more than 100 mg/L up or down) may indicate a shift in water quality and could affect your treatment process.
pH Balance and Chemical Composition
While not explicitly mentioned in the search results, pH balance and chemical composition are important factors in water quality. These parameters can affect the taste, smell, and safety of your drinking water.
Dissolved Solids and Turbidity
Turbidity testing can help identify if your groundwater is under the influence of surface water or flooding1. This is particularly important for wells that may be affected by surface conditions.
Testing Frequency
For rural drinking water sources:
Groundwater: Test at least 2 times per year
Surface water or groundwater under direct influence of surface water: Test 2-4 times per year
Professional Interpretation
Professional interpretation of your test results is crucial. The Alberta government provides resources to help you understand your water quality:
The Environmental Quality Guidelines for Alberta Surface Waters document outlines guidelines for surface water quality, sediment quality, and tissue residue.
The River Water Quality Index (RWQI) for Alberta offers a general assessment of water quality at 28 Long-Term River Network sites.
Addressing Water Quality Concerns
If your test results show contaminants above the recommended guideline values, take corrective action as soon as possible. This may involve treating your well or implementing a water treatment system.
Recommended Sources
For more information on water quality testing and interpretation, consider these resources:
Alberta Health Services Environmental Public Health
Health Canada's Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality
Alberta Environment's Water Quality Index
Remember, regular testing is key to maintaining a safe and sustainable water supply. As a private well owner, you're responsible for monitoring and maintaining your water quality.
Call to Action
Understanding your water quality is an important step in maintaining your rural property and ensuring your family's health. Share this information with your neighbors and on social media to spread awareness about the importance of water quality testing. Tag us in your comments (@allswell_brett on Instagram) and let us know your experiences with water quality testing!
By staying informed and proactive about your water quality, you can ensure that your rural property continues to provide safe, clean water for years to come.
Citations:
Well System Maintenance: Protecting Your Water Source After Winter
Spring is the perfect time for a comprehensive well system check. After winter's challenges, ensuring your well system is operating at peak efficiency becomes crucial for the busy seasons ahead.
Why Spring Maintenance Matters
The freeze-thaw cycles of winter can stress well components and surrounding soil structures. Spring runoff may introduce contaminants into groundwater, and seasonal changes in the water table can affect system performance. Being proactive now prevents inconvenient breakdowns during summer when water demands increase.
Essential Spring Maintenance Checklist
Visual Inspection of Well Head and Surrounding Area
Clear debris (leaves, branches, snow remnants) from around the well head
Look for signs of flooding, erosion, or drainage issues near the well
Check for cracks in the concrete pad surrounding the well
Ensure the well cap sits at least 12 inches above ground level to prevent contamination
Checking Seals and Caps for Winter Damage
Inspect well cap for cracks, loose fittings, or insect intrusions
Verify that all seals remain watertight and undamaged
Look for frost heave damage where pipes enter your home
Ensure vent screens are intact and unobstructed
Testing Pump Performance and Pressure Systems
Run water and listen for unusual noises (grinding, clicking, or inconsistent motor sounds)
Check pressure tank reading (typically 40-60 PSI for residential systems)
Time how long it takes your pressure tank to recover after emptying
Test pressure switch operation by monitoring cut-in and cut-out pressures
Evaluating Water Quality Post-Spring Thaw
Conduct basic testing for bacteria, nitrates, and pH
Note any changes in water color, taste, odor, or sediment
Consider comprehensive testing every 3-5 years for additional contaminants
Document results to track changes over time
Advanced Maintenance Considerations
System Efficiency Audit
All’s Well can measure your well's recovery rate and compare to previous records. A significant decrease could indicate pump issues or changes in your aquifer.
Electrical System Check
We also inspect all electrical connections for corrosion, test GFCI outlets serving the pump, and verify your control box components are functioning correctly.
Professional Inspection Benefits
While DIY checks are valuable, a professional can provide specialized services like:
Video inspection of well casing integrity
Flow testing with specialized equipment
Detailed water quality analysis
Professional cleaning of screens and casings
Seasonal Maintenance Calendar
Establishing a year-round maintenance schedule ensures your well remains reliable in all seasons:
Spring: Comprehensive system check and water quality testing
Summer: Monitor water levels during peak usage
Fall: Prepare system for winter conditions
Winter: Protect against freezing and monitor indoor components
Understanding Your Well System Components
Knowledge of your system's specifics helps you maintain it properly:
Well type (drilled, dug, or bored)
Depth and casing material
Pump type and age
Treatment systems installed
Understanding your well system's components and committing to regular maintenance prevents costly repairs and ensures a reliable water supply throughout the year.
Resources for Well Owners
Local and Provincial Resources:
Working Well Program (workingwell.alberta.ca)
Alberta Water Wells Registry
Ground Water Information Service (GWIS)
Additional Resources:
Your local health department for water testing services
Canadian National Ground Water Association
Local well drilling companies for maintenance services
Remember: Your well is an investment in your property's value and your family's health. Dedicating time each spring to proper maintenance protects this valuable resource for years to come.
Spring Runoff and Your Water Quality
As winter snow melts and spring arrives, your water quality may change significantly.
As winter snow gradually melts and spring finally arrives, the quality of your water may experience significant changes or, in some cases, remain stable. The spring runoff can often introduce various contaminants into your well water, making this the perfect time for thorough water testing and diligent system maintenance.
Key considerations to keep in mind during the spring runoff include:
increased turbidity levels in well water
potential bacterial contamination risks
noticeable changes in water taste and odor
as well as the need for adjusted filtration settings to ensure optimal water quality.
Regular water testing becomes especially important during this crucial transition period.
Brett and his dedicated team can accurately assess your water quality and recommend appropriate adjustments to your filtration system to ensure it operates effectively. Don't hesitate to give us a call!