How important is water testing?

Water is one of the most precious natural resources, which is integral to the existence of all things that are living. Ironically enough, it is also the commonest cause of contamination and diseases that are found in this world. Reason? Waterways and water bodies are often adversely distressed by human activities and water pollution is a natural result which strikes the existence of all living things at different levels. Water Testing is therefore extremely essential (usually tested at sources like tap, streams, rivers and wells) for understanding the water’s physical consistency, chemical contents and biological characteristics. This can help one to determine if it’s safe for the purposes of drinking, irrigation and sustenance of marine life.

Water Quality and contamination levels in USA

In USA, agricultural or irrigation run-off water and expelled urban wastewater contributes heavily to the contamination and pollution of water resources. A little less than half of USA rivers fail to comply with ‘Clean Water’ standards set by the states and a whopping 7 million of the total population fall sick every year due to the consumption of polluted tap water.

Water testing is usually done in conformation to the standards mentioned by EPA in USA. The discrepancies looked for in the content of tested water are the following –

Radioactive materials

Pathogens

Various impurities

Toxic elements

Known/unknown contaminants

Water testing must be performed routinely on public and private water systems and in both cases, the levels of tested elements must not exceed the mentioned standards that EPA sets for each state. If it does, steps have to be taken immediately for rectifying the situation.

Water testing is also important for aquariums that are kept at home and offices to determine the level of ammonia, pH level, nitrite, nitrate and salinity levels in the water enclosed within the aquarium walls.