Bacterial Contamination

The biggest worry for well owners is the presence of bacteria in their water. Test your water frequently to make sure bacteria are not getting into your well. You can get special water bottles from the Public Health Office. Follow the directions carefully, and return it to get tested. You will be notified immediately if there is a problem.

When to get your water tested

If you test your water after times of possible contamination, then it should be safe to drink at other times. If there is any doubt that your water may be unsafe to drink it is much better to be safe and get it tested. Also, document every test in the Water Quality Testing Diary because this will help you identify possible timing and reasons of contamination.

The best time to test your well is after a heavy rainfall or a flood. This is a time when there is the greatest chance of surface water entering your well and carrying bacteria to your water. Test your water during or after any major changes around your well or the surrounding area. Remember, you cannot see what is happening to the water under the ground and many wells may be connected to the same aquifer. Check your water quality after plumbing work and repairs to your well.

If you notice any change in your water's colour, taste, or smell, test your water. Immediately get your water tested if you or a member of your family has any unexplained health problems, especially gastrointestinal troubles because bacteria in your water may be the cause.

Bacteria Test Results

When you get your bacteria water quality test results back, it will list Total Coliforms and Fecal Coliforms. Not all Coliforms are harmful. Coliforms are bacteria that are found in the intestines of humans and animals, and in the soil. It is the bacteria that are found with the coliforms that cause the problems. It is difficult to find these harmful bacteria so coliforms, which are easier to find and count, are used to signal the potential presence of harmful bacteria. However, you should be very concerned about a positive Fecal Coliform result. If fecal coliforms or E. Coli are found in your water, there is a good chance that fecal matter is entering your well.

If your results require immediate action, like a boil order, you will receive a call from the Government Services Centre. They can instruct you on proper boiling and disinfecting processes. If your results show fecal coliforms, be sure to examine your well and surrounding area to remove the contaminant source. If your results do not require action, you will receive them in the mail. You can follow up with the Government Services Centre if you have any questions.

Animal and Human Waste

Fecal waste in your well may come from pets, wild animals, livestock and humans, through septic system failures. Such contamination may result in a serious potential threat to well water, as the Walkerton, Ontario tragedy illustrated. These wastes may cause harmful bacteria that can make you and your family sick. A positive test for fecal coliforms/e.coli means that your well is contaminated by animal or human waste.

To minimize fecal waste from entering your well, make sure your well is maintained and constructed properly. Do not allow your pets or the pets of others to play near your well. Be aware of any wild animal activity, such as droppings, trails, and footprints. Rainwater can wash animal waste into your well if it is not watertight. Always maintain your septic system.

Petrie Dish showing presence of E.Coli and Coliforms.