Water Quality & Treatment Blog

"It is important to know the hardness level of the water before selecting a water softener"

Hardness is commonly known as lime, hard water is composed of calcium and magnesium and leaves scaling white deposits.

"Ground water can become contaminated by many of the same pollutants that contaminate surface water."

A drilled well is a mainstay for many Canadians, with 30 percent of residents, or nine million residents, within Canada obtaining their water from a ground water source. Approximately 15 percent of this water is within rural areas and some parts of the country rely on ground water exclusively. 

Lead is toxic and can be harmful to human health, even in small amounts. It can pose a significant public health risk if ingested or dissolved in drinking water. Scientists agree there is no level of lead that is considered safe, and Health Canada recommends reducing levels as much as possible.

Three recent experiences have highlighted the need for improved water testing and awareness of potential contaminants in rural areas of the country. The absence of odour, colour, or bacterial contamination does not indicate that water is safe and in accordance with the Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines.

"There are more than 200 recognized enteric viruses of which approximately 140 variations are currently known to infect humans."

A drilled well is subject to influences from the incoming water table and surface water from runoff, septic systems and agricultural contamination. This article is a general summary of what can be in well water and provides information on contaminants, well practices and water testing.