How do I test my well water in North Carolina?
Generally, private well water can be tested via the North Carolina State Laboratory (through your local health deparment) or a state-certified commerical lab. However, specific procedures, fees and ordinances may vary from county to county.
How much is a water test in NC?
A comprehensive drinking water screen includes inorganics, organics, metals, and bacteria. Additional sample containers are required. The cost is $395.
How often should you test a private water well?
once each year
At a minimum, check your well every spring to make sure there are no mechanical problems; test it once each year for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH levels. If you suspect other contaminants, you should test for those as well.
How much is a well permit in NC?
A fee of $125 includes state regulated well water testing for bacteria and inorganics. There may be additional well water testing fees based on Wake County Well Regulations found here . Well Repair Permit: There is no fee for well repair permits.
How can I test my well water at home?
Often county health departments will help you test for bacteria or nitrates. If not, you can have your water tested by a state certified laboratory. You can find one in your area by calling the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791 or visiting www.epa.gov/safewater/labs.
Is North Carolina well water safe to drink?
Most private wells provide a clean, safe supply of water for many people in North Carolina. But sometimes contaminants can get into your well water and make you sick. As a private well owner, it is up to you to test your water to ensure it is safe to use.
What is the average well depth in North Carolina?
While many areas like Florida and Eastern North Carolina can hit water in 10-50 feet, the mountains of Western North Carolina is often 100-400 feet and can even be deeper.
How do you prepare for a well water test?
If the faucet is equipped with a strainer or aerator, remove (with washer) before collecting the sample. Clean the faucet with alcohol or bleach and wait for 1-2 minutes if testing will include a bacteria test. Allow water to run for at least 5 minutes (20 min if testing for Radon) before filling container(s).
How often should a well be serviced?
ANNUALLY
Wells should be checked and tested ANNUALLY for mechanical problems, cleanliness, and the presence of certain contaminants, such as coliform bacteria, nitrates/nitrites, and any other contaminants of local concern, (for example, arsenic and radon).
How deep is the water table in North Carolina?
There are aquifers, or creeks, and veins of water hundreds of feet underground that you want to collect and bring to your faucets. While many areas like Florida and Eastern North Carolina can hit water in 10-50 feet, the mountains of Western North Carolina is often 100-400 feet and can even be deeper.
How do you get a well permit in NC?
Permit applications are to be submitted to the appropriate DWR Regional Office of the region in which the proposed well or well system will be constructed. Permits are issued by DWR Regional Offices within 15 days of receipt of a complete permit application package.
Are well water testing kits accurate?
A water quality test kit’s accuracy will vary by manufacturer, but most are calibrated to EPA testing standards to ensure they’re as accurate as possible. Some kits have even been verified for accuracy by EPA-certified laboratories.
What does a well water test include?
Who should test my well? State and local health or environmental departments often test for nitrates, total coliforms, fecal coliforms, volatile organic compounds, and pH.
How long does a well last in North Carolina?
The average lifespan for a well is 30–50 years.
How much does it cost to drill a well in NC?
How much does a well cost? On average, a well costs around $6500-$7500. This includes all costs pertaining to drilling and the installation of the pumping system. Conditioning equipment is required in some cases and typically ranges from $1500-$3000.
How do I know if my well water is clean?
Visible Signs to Look Out For
- Scale or Scum. Scale buildup or a scummy feeling from water is often associated with calcium or magnesium.
- Unclear or Turbid Water.
- Green Stains on Sinks or Faucets.
- Brown or Red Stains on Sinks, Clothes, or Dishwasher.
- Salty Taste.
- Soapy Taste.
- Chemical Taste.
- Metallic Taste.