Well & septic
Test private-well water
Private wells are not routinely monitored like public water systems. Annual laboratory testing establishes whether the water remains suitable for use.
Recommended timingEvery year and after certain events
What to do
- Use a state-certified laboratory and follow its sample-bottle, collection, storage and drop-off instructions exactly.
- At least yearly, test for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids and pH; ask the local health district which additional contaminants are important for your location.
- In Southeast Idaho, Teton Microbiology in Idaho Falls and IAS EnviroChem in Pocatello are local testing options; both offer drinking-water microbiology testing, including total coliform and E. coli.
- Test again after flooding, well repair, nearby land disturbance, a change in taste/color/odor, unexplained illness, or when a vulnerable person begins using the water.
- Keep every result with the property's records so changes can be compared over time.
Do not drink from a well that may have been contaminated by flooding until the appropriate health authority or qualified well professional says it is safe and testing confirms the result.
Official guidance and sources
Product instructions and local requirements take priority for the equipment or material installed at your home.