Testing Schedule

Initial Tests**	Hardness, sodium, chloride, ﬂuoride, nitrates, sulfates, radionuclides, iron, manganese, arsenic, mercury, and lead. In some locations in Arizona, test for selenium (near both the San Simon and Colorado River, as well as the Gila River in Yuma County) and hexavalent chromium (near Kingman), plus all tests listed below.
Annual Tests (at a minimum):	Total coliform bacteria, TDS, pH, nitrate.
Monthly Visual Inspection:	Look for and note changes in: Turbidity (cloudiness, particulates) Color, taste, and odor* Health changes (reoccurring gastrointestinal problems in children and/or guests)**
See Appendix B for a comprehensive list of poor water quality symptoms, tests, and possible causes.* *Annual testing may not be needed, as these chemicals usually are naturally occurring and their concentrations do not change over time.* *Consider one or more of the initial tests listed above. **Tests should be performed right away.
Table 2: Suggested Water Testing* Schedule

When a well produces water of poor quality, it is important to determine the possible causes or sources of the contamination. Table 2 provides a list of recommended tests, frequency of testing, and possible causes. Initial tests should be conducted with the installation of a new well as well as prior to your taking ownership (and responsibility) for the well water quality.

More frequent testing is suggested if visual changes in the water quality are noticed, if you smell an unusual odor from the water, if there has been recent maintenance of your well or pump, if you observe spotting on laundry, or if unexplained health changes occur. Unusual smells or tasts not readily identified by the tests suggested in Table 2, may require testing for volatile organics (including solvents and gasoline products). These tests are also recommended for wells located in or near industrial sites and/or agricultural areas with shallow (less than 100feet below land surface) ground water sources.

Water quality tests should be done at the well head (if possible), after water passes through a water softener unit, and/or at the tap. Note that some water softeners change the composition and concentration of salts and may also reduce the levels of arsenic and other trace inorganic chemicals.

Homeowners should not attempt to treat or use as drinking water sources contaminated with industrial chemicals such as solvents, pesticides, and gasoline products at concentrations above National Primary Drinking Water Standards.