To ensure every household in Ireland has the cleanest drinking water possible, several parameters are included with our Standard Drinking Water Test.
To help you understand each of them, in this blog, we will write about the importance of monitoring all 12.
Chemical Testing for Drinking Water Testing.
Why do we test for pH?
Since metals dissolve readily in acidic water, dissolved metals may be present in drinking water with a low pH level. Metals such as iron, manganese, copper, and lead can leach into drinking water from pipes or the local aquifer. Alkaline or “hard” water contains excess calcium and other minerals that cause the familiar scaly deposits on cookware and a bitter taste in coffee.
Why do we test for Ammonia?
Ammonia in water can cause corrosion of copper pipes and fittings, causing stains on cloths and towels. The presence of Ammonium in water supplies indicates contamination from agricultural or industrial practices and sewage systems. Increased ammonium levels can also occur in areas with high amounts of agricultural activity.
Why do we test for Nitrites?
Swallowing high amounts of nitrate and/or nitrite can cause a condition called methemoglobinemia. This condition affects the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. Infants younger than six months of age and pregnant women are more at risk of developing this condition. The presence of elevated Nitrite concentrations indicates a pollution event has occurred at the source.
Why do we test for Total Hardness?
Hard water is richer in minerals than soft water and tends to have a high content of calcium and magnesium because it has dissolved the compounds present in sedimentary rock. Hard water is safe to drink and is often considered healthy due to its high mineral content. However, there are several issues that arise due to the presence of hard water in the home, such as the presence of limescale on appliances such as showerheads, hot water heaters and dishwashers.
Limescale build-up may cause a great deal of damage to appliances and can also affect the water pressure in your home’s plumbing system. Soap and shampoo may not lather up easily in the shower, and your hair and skin may appear dull or irritated. Hard water may also cause eczema and inflame other similar skin conditions.
Why do we test for Alkalinity?
The alkalinity test is a measure of the acid-neutralizing capacity of the water. The acidity of the water can erode tooth enamel and metal plumbing in your house. Continued drinking of acidic water can also cause acidosis.
Why do we test for Manganese?
Manganese exceedances in a drinking water supply may point to pollution of the source water, although some exceedances arise from naturally occurring high levels at the source. High levels of manganese have also been shown to cause ADHD and learning disabilities. Because of this, it is important to monitor the levels of manganese in drinking water to ensure that consumption does not increase to a point where toxic effects may occur.
Why do we test for Iron?
Some older water mains are made from cast iron and may corrode to give the water a rust-coloured appearance which may not necessarily pose a health risk but would not be acceptable in terms of taste or appearance.
Why do we test for Dissolved Solids?
Total dissolved solids can affect your water quality, your health, your home plumbing system, and even daily tasks, such as cooking and cleaning. By measuring your water for TDS, you can better understand your water quality and how it affects your everyday life, allowing you to make an informed decision to solve your water quality problem and install the most effective filtration system for your home.
Why do we test for Conductivity?
Scientists need to know the exact composition of the water we’re testing with to get accurate, repeatable results. Conductivity in freshwater systems is affected by the geology of the area through which the water flows. Streams that run through granite bedrock will have lower conductivity, while those that flow through limestone and clay soils will have higher values. High readings can also come from industrial pollution or run-off from roads. Extended dry periods and low flow conditions also contribute to higher conductivity readings.
Why do we perform a test for Langelier Index?
The tendency of water to cause corrosion or scale in pipes and fittings is measured using a useful scale known as the Langelier Index.
Microbiological Testing
Why do we test for E. coli?
Certain strains, such as types of E. coli, can cause serious illnesses such as gastroenteritis, dysentery, and diarrhoea. Exceedances for E. coli can be due to a contamination incident either at a water source or through the water network, for example, at burst mains or at an illegal connection. Exceedances of E. coli can also occur due to a failure in the disinfection treatment process.
Why do we test for Coliforms?
Coliform Bacteria should not be present in water that is disinfected, and their presence indicates that either disinfection has not been complete, that there is entry into the water mains in the distribution network or that the sampling point is contaminated. Their presence in drinking water indicates that disease-causing organisms could be in the water system.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you understand more about the parameters we test for in our Standard Drinking Water test.
If you’re concerned about your drinking water quality and want to learn more about keeping your supply safe, our newsletter is perfect for you. 🏠
Learn more about our Standard Drinking Water Test Here 👉 Standard Drinking Water Test
