The water we consume is valuable and vital
Testing for pathogens and chemicals in your drinking water can provide you with the information needed to make changes to your home’s water supply system. Whether water from private well, or public water, Welcome Home can collect samples and submit them to reputable labs for analysis.
About water quality testing
Where Do You Even Begin With Water Testing?
The reality is that almost any chemical can be tested for in water — which can make the process feel daunting. The good news is that there's a logical starting point, and we can help guide you through it.
For homes on public water, lead is the most important contaminant to test for first. Lead is a well-documented toxicant, and children are especially at risk due to their smaller body size and developing systems. Many older homes still have lead-based pipes, lead-soldered joints, or underground lines that can't be seen or removed — meaning lead can be present even when you least expect it. Testing is the only way to know for certain, and if levels exceed EPA standards, corrective action is recommended. Water testing can also reveal whether filtration or conditioning systems would improve your water quality — and which type of system would work best for your situation.
Private Well Water: A Homeowner's Responsibility
Private wells aren't as common in the Pittsburgh area, but for homes that rely on them, water quality is entirely the homeowner's responsibility. Wells can be impacted by naturally occurring minerals as well as outside influences like agricultural runoff, nearby industry, or changes in land use — making regular testing essential.
Annual sampling is recommended, and the standard starting point is a Potability Water Sample — the baseline test that determines whether your water is safe for everyday household use. Most financial lenders require this test for homes with private water sources. If a problem is identified, water conditioning units are available to address a wide range of contaminants.
For homeowners in areas with specific environmental concerns — such as agricultural land, mining activity, or industrial neighbors — targeted testing for contaminants like nitrates, nitrites, or pesticides may also be worth considering. The more you know about your surroundings, the better equipped you are to protect your water supply.
Click the button to learn more from the EPA about potential well water contaminants and their impacts.