Orlando well water testing
If you are purchasing a home in Orlando, your lender may require well water testing, particularly for FHA, VA, or USDA loans. These loans typically require tests for bacteria and nitrates, and may also include lead and nitrite. To complete the process, confirm your lender’s specific requirements, obtain a testing kit from a local laboratory, and collect the necessary samples. Results are usually available within a few days.
Is well water testing necessary?
If your lender asks for it, you need to test your well water. If not, it is still a good idea. Each well is unique, and the environment around it can affect water quality in different ways. For example, if you live near commercial farms, your water might have high nitrate levels from fertilizer or animal waste. Animal waste or a broken septic system can also lead to high bacteria levels. Old lead pipes in your area could cause lead to get into your well water. Because of these risks, we always recommend that our clients test their water. EPA recommends testing for bacteria once a year and for nitrates/nitrite every 5 years.
What are the risks with elevated levels?
The EPA has set standards for what is considered safe and what is considered excessive. Each item that we test for has different impacts on a persons health.
- Nitrate and Nitrites – When nitrates enter the body, they are changed into nitrites. Nitrites are present in fertilizers and human waste. Infants are especially sensitive to high levels, which can lead to methemoglobinemia, also known as “blue baby syndrome.” If infants consume water with high nitrate levels, they can become very sick and, in severe cases, may die. Symptoms include trouble breathing and a bluish tint to the skin, which is why it is called blue baby syndrome.
- Heavy Metals – Metals like lead, selenium, copper, arsenic, and others can seep into well water. These metals often come from sources such as home plumbing, concrete plants, mining, electronics, and petroleum industries. Consuming high levels of heavy metals can raise the risk of cancer, kidney and liver disease, and problems with the nervous system.
- Microorganisms – Bacteria, parasites, and viruses from animal or human waste can get into a well. These microorganisms can cause stomach illnesses and other infections in people.
What do I do if there are high levels in my well?
If your test results are high, reach out to a local water treatment company. Share your results so they can recommend a system that fits your well. After the system is installed, test your water again to check if the filter works. Remember to replace filters regularly and mark it on your calendar.
If you are buying a home with a well in the Central Florida area and would like your water tested please give us a call at 407-633-1661 or visit our website.