 Private Wells and Water Testing
Private well owners are responsible for ensuring that their well
water is safe to drink. The Florida Department of Health
strongly recommends that
private well water is tested for bacteria and chemicals at least
annually. It is simple, affordable, and a great way to assure that
the water is safe for you and your family to use.
Wells can become
contaminated from bacteria and chemicals for a variety of
reasons. Sometimes it is obvious like when flood waters enter the
well, but many times it is not such as when septic tanks fail,
fertilizers seep into the ground water or wash into streams and
canals, or someone illegally dumps chemicals or sewage. Either way
drinking contaminated water can make you and your family
ill.
As a service to the community, the DeSoto County Health Department (DCHD)
– Environmental Health Division is available to test your water for
bacteria and chemicals, interpret the results, and provide guidance
on how to
disinfect the well if the water is contaminated. You
can retrieve an approved sterile container from our
Environmental Health office and
collect the sample yourself, or for
your convenience we can have an Environmental Health Specialist
obtain a sample from your home.
DeSoto CHD has experience in well sampling and monitoring as it
regulates public wells to assure that they meet state quality and
construction standards by issuing operating permits (.pdf / 40.3kb),
testing the water for bacteria and chemicals, and investigating
problems. Testing for Nitrogen, Nitrite, Nitrate, Lead and Coliform
Bacteria can also be preformed by Environmental Health; however, we
must be the ones to obtain the sample in order to certify the water
test. Note: Nitrogen, Nitrite and Nitrate Testing require a nominal
fee.
What do I need to do if I want to bring in my own sample?
- Obtain an approved sterile container
- Run your water for at least five minutes
- Collect at least 8 ounces of your tap water
- Deliver sample to the Environmental Health Office
How do I request Environmental Health to test my water?
- Call DCHD’s Environmental Health Division at (863) 993-4601 2-3
days prior to your intended sampling date
- An Environmental Specialist will schedule and confirm an
appointment with you.
Links and Additional Information
For more specific information about state standards:
64E-8 Drinking
Water Systems.
United States Environmental Protection Agency - The Office of Ground
Water and Drinking Water
National Sanitation Foundation - Well Water
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