What should I test my well water for in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania does not regulate private wells, so testing is entirely on the homeowner. At minimum, test annually for total coliform bacteria and E. coli, nitrate, pH, hardness, iron and manganese, and total dissolved solids. In farm country add nitrate every year, and test for lead if the home has older plumbing.
The core panel
Bacteria (total coliform / E. coli) — the only result with an immediate health meaning. Retest after any well work, flooding or loss of pressure.
Nitrate — the 10 mg/L limit exists because of infant health risk. Common near cropland and manure application across Lancaster, Lebanon and York counties.
pH — below about 6.5 the water is corrosive and will leach copper and lead out of your own plumbing.
Hardness, iron, manganese — these drive what equipment you need, not health risk.
Situational tests
Lead and copper if the house predates 1990 or you see blue-green staining.
Arsenic in parts of the region where it has been documented.
Sulfate and hydrogen sulfide if the water smells like rotten eggs.
How often
Bacteria and nitrate yearly. The full panel every three years, or any time the taste, smell or appearance of your water changes.
Get your own numbers, free.
We test your water in your home anywhere in southeastern Pennsylvania and explain exactly what the results mean — no obligation.