| Frequently
Asked Questions? |
| |
| Can
I test for everything? |
| |
Yes,
but there are hundreds of water tests and it would cost
thousands of dollars. Coliform bacteria, nitrate, arsenic,
and lead tests cover most common health issues in drinking
water. Iron is a nuisance, not usually a health issue,
and is often found in well water. |
| How
much does it cost for a water test? |
| |
Call
AddyLab for current fee information (360) 750-0055. |
| How
long does water testing take? |
|
The
turn around time for coliform bacteria test is one day.
Nitrates and fluoride are tested twice a week. Other tests,
like the arsenic and lead, may require 8-10 working days.
Extra costs may be paid to rush samples to 4-6 days. |
| How
do I know if the water from my well is safe to drink? |
|
Only
by laboratory testing for bacteria or chemicals can you
assure your water is safe. If coliform bacteria are present,
dangerous bacteria and viruses may be in your drinking
water. In the Pacific Northwest another concern is the
naturally occurring contaminate arsenic. The only way
to determine if you have a safe level of arsenic, or any
arsenic at all, is to test your water. |
| What
causes rotten-egg smell from my well water? |
| |
Hydrogen
sulfide, the rotten-egg smell, may be caused by sulfate-reducing
bacteria, water heaters, natural sources or contamination. |
| Where
are you located? |
| |
2517
East Evergreen Blvd. Vancouver (Click here for Directions?Map) |
| Do
you have other places I can pick up bottles? |
| |
Yes.
You can pick up bottles at the Woodland Hi-School Pharmacy
(return samples Monday - Wednesday). Sample pickup will
be Tuesday through Thursday. And the Battle Ground Ace
Hardware (return only on Sunday - Wednesday). Pickup will
be Monday through Thursday. |
| How
can I pay for my testing? |
| |
Cash,
check, credit, and debit cards are accepted at AddyLab.
At the Battle Ground Ace Hardware and Woodland Hi-School
Pharmacy payment is by cash and checks only. |
| I
tested my water before - Do I need to test it again? |
| |
EPA
recommends testing your well for bacteria and nitrate
annually. For other tests, consult with the AddyLab staff. |
