Drilling a well isn’t just about reaching water—it’s about ensuring that water is clean, safe, and reliable. Whether you're a professional well driller or a homeowner with a private well, understanding water quality is essential for long-term health and system performance. 

This guide explains why water testing matters, what contaminants to watch for, and how on-site testing tools can help both professionals and consumers make informed decisions. 

What Happens When You Drill a Well? 

Water well drilling involves boring through soil and rock to access underground aquifers. The process includes: 

• Site selection based on geology and distance from contamination sources 

• Borehole creation using rotary or percussion drilling methods 

• Casing installation to prevent collapse and contamination 

• Grouting to seal the well and protect groundwater 

• Pump installation and water quality testing before use 

For a detailed breakdown of the drilling process, check out DrillerDB’s step-by-step guide. 

Why Water Testing Is Essential 

Groundwater may look clear, but it can contain invisible contaminants. According to the CDC, well owners should test their water at least once a year for: 

• Total coliform bacteria 

• Nitrates 

• Total dissolved solids 

• pH levels 

Additional testing may be needed depending on local geology, nearby land use, or changes in taste, odor, or color. 

Common Groundwater Contaminants 

Contaminants can be naturally occurring or introduced by human activity. The U.S. Geological Survey lists several common threats: 

  

Contaminant	Source	Potential Impact
Iron & Manganese	Natural minerals	Staining, metallic taste
Nitrates	Fertilizers, septic systems	Risk to infants (blue baby syndrome)
Bacteria (E. coli)	Animal waste, surface runoff	Gastrointestinal illness
Arsenic	Natural deposits, industrial waste	Carcinogenic at high levels
Hardness minerals	Limestone, dolomite	Scale buildup, appliance damage
VOCs	Industrial solvents, fuel	Liver/kidney damage, cancer risk

For a full list of contaminants and their health effects, visit the EPA’s groundwater contamination page. 

On-Site Testing Tools for Professionals and Homeowners 

Portable water testing kits allow users to: 

• Detect over 50 parameters instantly 

• Make decisions during drilling or maintenance 

• Track seasonal changes in water quality 

• Provide transparency to clients or family members 

The eXact® Micro 20 with Bluetooth® Well Driller Kit and Well eXact® EZ Photometer are examples of tools that support real-time testing and digital record keeping. 

Knowledge That Builds Trust 

For well drillers: 

• Testing during installation provides a baseline profile 

• Helps recommend filtration or treatment systems 

• Enhances professionalism and client confidence 

For consumers: 

• Annual testing helps detect changes or contamination 

• Supports health, appliance longevity, and peace of mind 

• Empowers homeowners to manage their water responsibly 

What You Can Do 

Whether you're drilling or drinking: 

• Test water at installation and at least annually 

• Use certified labs or portable kits for accuracy 

• Monitor after floods, droughts, or nearby construction 

• Keep records to track trends and support maintenance 

Water is life—and it starts deep underground. With proper testing and awareness, both professionals and homeowners can ensure that every drop is safe, clean, and reliable.