Well Water Testing & Treatment
If you rely on a private well, you are your own water utility. Here's how to test, what to test for, and how to fix problems.
Test your water first: before spending on treatment equipment, test for bacteria, nitrates, metals, and hardness — a state-certified lab or a lab-grade mail-in kit will tell you exactly what (if anything) your well needs treated.
How and when to test →
When to test your well water
- At least once a year for bacteria and nitrates
- Before buying or selling a home (often required for FHA/VA/USDA loans)
- After flooding, a nearby spill, or new nearby construction
- Any change in taste, smell (rotten-egg = sulfur), color, or staining
Get a treatment quote
Iron, sulfur, hardness, or bacteria? Independent water-treatment dealers install softeners, filtration, and UV systems. Find licensed pros in your state →
Frequently asked questions
How often should well water be tested?
Test private well water at least once a year for bacteria and nitrates, after flooding or nearby construction, and any time taste, smell, or color changes.
What test does an FHA loan require for well water?
FHA/VA/USDA loans typically require testing by a certified laboratory for coliform bacteria, nitrate, nitrite, and lead — home screening kits don't qualify.