Local lab testing allows property owners to test their well water for hardness, which is a common issue.
Hardness refers to the concentration of minerals dissolved in the supply.
Those minerals are mostly calcium and magnesium.
About 41% of Arizona’s water comes from groundwater.
However, hardness levels often vary from place to place.
It’s important to check your water to make sure the hardness isn’t negatively affecting your water quality.
Here’s what happens during local lab testing for well water hardness and why it matters.
Why Test for Water Hardness?
Hard water is not generally a health hazard, but it does create practical problems.
These include:
- Scale buildup in plumbing and appliances
- Soap inefficiency
- Spotting and streaking
- Comfort and maintenance
Water hardness analysis can help save your water heaters, dishwashers, and pipes from accumulating mineral deposits.
These deposits can reduce efficiency and lifespan.
Local water lab services can get you a clearer picture of what’s in your supply and how to address it.
How Do I Get My Water Tested for Hardness?
The process of home water safety testing in Arizona is straightforward.
Homeowners have several options they can try, but professional services will give them the most accurate answer.
Contact a Local Water Lab Service
Independent laboratories provide professional testing.
Many offer sample collection kits, which include bottles, instructions, and guidelines for mailing and dropping off your sample.
Collect a Sample
Samples should come from a point where water is normally consumed, such as a kitchen tap.
The lab’s instructions will specify how to collect without contamination.
Submit to the Lab
Some labs allow walk-in drop-offs.
Others may provide prepaid shipping labels.
Results often arrive within a few business days, either way.
Review Results and Recommendations
The report will indicate the level of hardness in grains per gallon or milligrams per liter.
Labs may also provide guidance on treatment solutions, such as water softeners, if necessary.
What is the Hardness of the Water in Arizona?
Arizona is well-known for having some of the hardest water in the United States.
Depending on location, water hardness levels can range from 200 mg/L to over 400 mg/L.
The scale is as follows:
- 0 – 60 mg/L = Soft
- 61 – 120 mg/L = Moderately hard
- 121 – 180 mg/L = Hard
- 181+ mg/L = Very hard
Water quality checks in Arizona vary by region.
Most Arizona wells will fall in the “hard” and “very hard” categories.
It’s important for homeowners to test and treat their wells accordingly.
What Happens During Local Lab Testing for Well Water Hardness?
When you choose local water lab services, the testing process goes beyond a simple hardness check.
First, labs need to confirm the sample is uncontaminated and valid.
They can then use standardized methods such as titration or spectrometry to measure calcium and magnesium concentrations.
Many labs also offer bundled testing packages to check for other concerns.
These include pH, total dissolved solids, and bacterial contamination.
The homeowner receives a breakdown of hardness levels and recommendations for potential treatment systems.
Technicians will also let you know what’s normal and what might signal a bigger problem.
Benefits of Arizona Well Water Testing
Testing your well water through a professional service provides several benefits.
These include:
- Better accuracy than DIY kits
- Local expertise that understands the region’s unique water chemistry
- Actionable insights for homeowners to improve well water maintenance
- Peace of mind knowing your water quality
You’ll know you need well water testing if you notice some of the signs of reduced performance.
Maybe the water pressure decreases, or you notice your pump running more frequently.
Sudden changes in water taste or appearance may also let you know your well needs rehabilitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I test my well water for hardness?
Most experts recommend annual testing.
That way, you can monitor your well water for any changes.
However, more frequent checks may be beneficial if you install a new water treatment system or notice changes in water taste or appearance.
Does water hardness affect health?
Hard water is generally safe to drink and may even provide beneficial minerals.
You may notice a difference in taste between hard and soft water.
The main concern is its impact on plumbing, appliances, and household tasks.
Hard water is often rough on your plumbing, and it can lead to soap scum, fading laundry, and spotted dishes.
Can water hardness change over time?
Yes, water hardness changes over time due to various factors.
Seasonal changes, aquifer conditions, and shifts in groundwater levels can alter hardness levels.
Even long-term trends, such as droughts, may impact mineral concentrations.
Keep in mind that water hardness can differ based on location, as well.
Moving to another property within the same county may introduce you to a new groundwater source.
What is the cost of professional hardness testing in Arizona?
Costs vary depending on the lab and whether you choose a full water quality package or a single-parameter test.
On average, a hardness test might range from $30 to $80.
Comprehensive packages could cost double or more.
After that, you may need to invest in water softening treatments if you need them.
Can I rely on home test kits instead of a lab?
At-home kits provide a general idea of hardness levels, but they lack the precision and credibility of lab results.
They’re useful as a way to check your well water between professional tests.
However, lab testing is strongly recommended for homeowners making investment decisions.
The lab can find problems that home tests can miss or otherwise don’t test for.
Don’t Wait to Check Your Well Water
Local lab testing for well water hardness is an essential part of maintaining your well water systems.
It protects your household systems and ensures the best water quality for your home.
Without routine testing and treatment, you’ll likely face scaling, inefficiency, and maintenance challenges.
Pump It Up, Pump Service, Inc., provides professional water well services for homeowners and property owners in Arizona.
We can help with anything ranging from pump installation to well rehab and repair.
Contact us with any questions, and we’ll get in touch shortly.
Looking for Phoenix Well Water Testing?
Trust Pump It Up Pump Services, Inc. for professional well water testing in Phoenix. Our expert team delivers accurate, reliable results to ensure your water is safe, clean, and ready for everyday use.
Call 623-582-5069 or request service online today!