Bacteria Test

Coliform bacteria is naturaly present in the environment and the most common test requested.  Bacteria testing is one of the tests the EPA recommends performing annually.  This test is especially important for a new, replaced or repaired well.  Bacteria tesing is also recommended after filter changes.  Testing can be done as Positive/Non Detected or quanitative colony count.

Choose a faucet that is a drinking water source inside the house without a pull out sprayer.  Also avoid a single lever faucet, as you want cold water sample only.  Remove the aerator (the small screen the water flows through) from the faucet.  Run the cold water for three to five minutes before proceeding. 

After collection immediately store in refrigerator or on ice.  Return the samples as soon after sampling as possible.  If you are returning samples by UPS or FedEx, ship Monday through Thursday only.  If you are returning samples by US Mail ship Monday through Friday only.  Make sure your  samples are packaged appropriately and ships the same day, no signature requirement.

30 hours is the maximum time a sample can be stored between collection and analysis. 

2 business days