LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan residents who rely on private well water in their homes can now access free water testing through a new Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) program.

“EGLE and the LHDs [Local Health Departments] want to help families know if their water is safe to drink, and this free well water testing will help get them that answer,” EGLE wrote in its announcement. “This free testing program is your first step in knowing if the water you drink from your private well is safe, and steps to take if an issue is found.”

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Standard water quality concerns for private wells include nitrates; several types of bacteria; and metal contaminants such as lead, uranium, and mercury. The presence of contaminants in the water can cause several illnesses, including E. Coli, giardia, and heavy metal poisoning.

Although most wells are checked for quality when first building, the CDC recommends testing private wells each spring for mechanical problems, and once per year for coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH levels. Local health departments can advise residents about area-specific concerns and interpret test results.

Residents seeking to have their water tested will need to determine whether their water comes from a public or private source. Most residents who receive a water bill are on a community water supply and will not be eligible for a test. A database of well records is available here.

Residents can request a free test at the EGLE website.