How to Test Your Water Quality

Why Test First?

Different contaminants need different filters. Testing reveals what you're actually dealing with so you don't buy the wrong filter—or more filter than you need.

Option 1: Request Your Water Report (City Water)

If you're on municipal water, your utility tests the water and publishes an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). This is free and shows what's in your water.

Option 2: DIY Test Kits ($10-50)

Simple at-home tests for common concerns. Good for quick screening or verifying specific issues.

Test strip kits (~$15)

Dip strips in water, compare colors. Tests for pH, hardness, chlorine, lead, bacteria, nitrates, and more. Quick but not highly accurate.

TDS meter (~$15)

Measures Total Dissolved Solids. Useful for checking RO filter performance, but doesn't tell you what's dissolved—just how much.

Lead test kits (~$20-30)

Specifically tests for lead. Important for older homes (pre-1986). More accurate than strip tests for this specific concern.

Option 3: Lab Testing ($30-300+)

Most accurate option. Essential for well water. Mail a sample to a certified lab and get detailed results.

Basic lab test (~$30-50)

Tests bacteria, nitrates, pH, and a few other parameters. Minimum for well water.

Comprehensive panel (~$100-200)

Tests for heavy metals, VOCs, pesticides, and more. Recommended for well water or if you have specific concerns.

Full analysis (~$200-400)

Tests everything including PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and specialty contaminants. Good if you're near industrial sites or have unknown contamination.

When to Test

City water:

• When you move to a new home
• If water taste/smell changes
• If you have old pipes (lead testing)
• If there's construction nearby

Well water:

• Annually for bacteria and nitrates (minimum)
• Every 3-5 years for comprehensive testing
• After any work on the well
• After flooding or nearby contamination events
• If taste, smell, or color changes