Professional Bacteria In Water Test Kit

 Bacteria in Water Test Kit
Most people believe that their water comes from pure sources without any contamination or that the water has been treated. The presence of bacteria and pathogenic (disease-causing) organisms is a concern when considering the safety of drinking water. Pathogenic organisms can cause intestinal infections, dysentery, hepatitis, typhoid fever, cholera, and other illnesses.

Sources of Bacteria in Drinking Water
Human and animal wastes are a primary source of bacteria in water. These sources of bacterial contamination include runoff from feedlots, pastures, dog runs, and other land areas where animal wastes are deposited. Additional sources include seepage or discharge from septic tanks and sewage treatment facilities. Bacteria from these sources can enter wells that are either open at the land surface, or do not have water-tight casings or caps.

Insects, rodents or animals entering the well are other sources of contamination. Old wells were dug by hand and lined (cased) with rocks or bricks. These wells usually have large openings and casings that often are not well-sealed. This makes it easy for insects, rodents, or animals to enter the well.

Another way bacteria can enter a water supply is through inundation or infiltration by flood waters or by surface runoff. Flood waters commonly contain high levels of bacteria. Small depressions filled with flood water provide an excellent breeding ground for bacteria.

Whenever a well is inundated by flood waters or surface runoff, bacterial contamination is likely. Shallow wells and wells that do not have water-tight casings can be contaminated by bacteria infiltrating with the water through the soil near the well, especially in coarse-textured soils.

Older water systems, especially, dug wells, spring-fed systems and cistern-type systems are most vulnerable to bacterial contamination. Any system with casings or caps that are not water-tight are vulnerable. This is particularly true if the well is located so surface runoff might be able to enter the well. During the last five to 10 years, well and water distribution system construction has improved to the point where bacterial contamination is rare in newer wells.

Bacterial contamination of private water supplies is common, so why aren't more people sick?

The coliform bacteria identified in a water test do not cause disease. These bacteria are used to identify an unsanitary water supply and indicate the risk of exposure to a water-borne disease. Water-borne diseases may be mistaken for the flu or food poisoning.

Remember that coliform bacteria in your water supply are a warning of contamination. Only through routine water testing, proper water supply construction and protection, and any necessary water treatment can you ensure a safe water supply for your family and livestock.

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