Well Water Testing in Green Bay and the Fox Valley
A private well is yours to look after, and a yearly test is the simplest step. Here is what to test for, how often and what to do with the results.
Around Green Bay, Appleton and nearby
Calls are recorded for quality assurance.
What to test and how often
- Bacteria: once a year, and any time the water changes in taste, color or smell.
- Nitrate: once a year, and before the water is used by someone who is or may become pregnant.
- Arsenic: every five years for most wells. In Outagamie, Winnebago and Brown counties, or if a past sample showed arsenic, the DNR advises every year.
Use a lab certified for the test you need. The DNR keeps lists of certified labs for bacteria and for other contaminants.
When results come back
- Bacteria present: stop drinking the water and follow the DNR's steps for disinfecting the well. A well that keeps testing positive often has a construction problem.
- Nitrate over 10 mg/l: do not give the water to infants under six months or use it for formula, and do not drink it while pregnant.
- Arsenic over 10 micrograms per liter: the state health department advises not using the water for cooking foods that take up a lot of water.
A result that stays high is a reason to have a well driller look at the well itself: the casing depth, the cap and what sits nearby.
Tests that come with well work
Some tests happen as part of a job. A new well gets a bacteria and nitrate sample before you drink from it. Pump work in an existing well includes samples for bacteria, nitrate and arsenic. A well inspection for a home sale tests for coliform bacteria, nitrate and arsenic.
Questions to ask
- Which lab runs the tests, and is it certified for them?
- Who collects the sample, and how?
- If a result is high, what would you check on the well first?
Testing questions
My water looks and tastes fine. Do I still need a test?
Yes. The DNR advises a bacteria and nitrate test every year whether or not anything has changed.
Where can I see how my well was built?
The DNR's well records search holds Well Construction Reports. Bring yours to the call if you have it.
Ready when you are
Call now, or send the form. A local pro calls you back, usually the same business day.
Calls are recorded for quality assurance.