Description of Tests
The water that you drink should be free of any bacteria or chemical contaminants. Your water should be clear, free of odor and
particulates and have no taste. However, you can’t necessarily see or taste contaminants, so we recommend routine testing of
your water.
Snohomish Health District can assist you with the following tests:
Bacteria
The presence of coliform bacteria is an excellent indicator of contamination of water supplies. These bacteria are widely
distributed throughout the environment in soil, on plants, on animal, and in very large numbers in the feces of warm-blooded
animals. When coliform bacteria are present, it means water has been exposed to one or more of these sources.
Inorganic Chemicals
Inorganic chemicals are widespread in the environment. Concentrations which exceed nationally standardized levels may be due
to human activities or natural conditions or both. Levels of most inorganic chemicals are greatly influenced by types of soil,
rock and minerals present.
The primary inorganic chemicals include arsenic, barium, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, selenium, silver, sodium, fluoride
and nitrate.
Note : Test results of the above chemicals (SHD short list) must be submitted prior to issuance of a building permit
for new construction.
Other Available Tests
You can also request individual tests for the following:
Arsenic, Barium, Cadmium, Chromium, Lead, Mercury, Selenium, Silver, Nitrate, Fluoride, Sodium, Chloride, Copper, Iron, Manganese,
Sulfate, Zinc, Hardness, Turbidity, pH
Testing Procedures
In order to test for contaminants, you need to first obtain the proper testing bottle from the Health District. Samples can not be
collected in any other container. When collecting from a tap source, first remove all screens and aerator devices and allow water to
run for several minutes without adjusting the flow. Do not use hoses or hot water. When collecting water from a well, pump out 5 to 10
pails before taking the sample. Thorough pumping to remove all traces of chlorine is necessary if the well was chlorinated before
sampling. Open the bottle and keep the cap in one hand while you collect the water sample with the other. Do not touch the inside of
the bottle or the cap. Fill the bottle just to the break of the shoulder of the bottle. If you fill the bottle too full, pour some
water back out. Air space is essential. The timing of the collection is important, too. If you take the water sample before 8:00am
you must return it by 9:00am the same day. If you take your water sample after 8:00am you must return if by 9:00am the next day.
Friday samples must be in by 9:00am.
