These bacteria come from feces of humans and animals. If present there is a greater risk of pathogens. Contamination could be from septic or agriculture surface runoff.

A subgroup of fecal coliform bacteria that does indicate recent contamination of fecal outbreaks. A positive result indicates greater risk that pathogens are present.

Natural contamination is rare. Found in older home construction, lead was used in plumbing and solder. Acidic water can increase the intensity of contamination from corrosion of metals in the water. Lead contamination can be found in the well construction all the way to faucet.

High concentrations of nitrates can cause methemoglobinemia, which impairs the ability of the blood cells to carry oxygen through the body. Grave concerns are for pregnant women, infants, & elderly. Sources are most likely from agriculture fertilizers.

(Volatile Organic Compounds) These results indicate petroleum’s, gases, pesticides and other chemical intrusion. Industrial or agricultural runoff can be the cause. Medical concerns are exposure to the body through consumption and absorption through the skin.

A gasoline additive, which is a VOC, has specific health concerns. Source is from a fuel spill or gasoline plant runoff.

Natural radioactive breakdown from the geology within the ground.
Found in some ground water which is released as a gas in water vapor as steam.

Harmful levels if ingested, usually leaching with acidic water on metal plumbing & fixtures. Ground water contamination could be industrial.

Minerals in the water from limestone causes white stains on dishes and glassware. Build up over time will reduce pressure in plumbing, effect efficiency of hot water heaters, and dish washers. Soaps in hard water cannot lather to their potential creating soap scum and hard water scale.

High mineral levels can be harmful to ingest over time creating problems to the kidneys and other organs. May effect taste in drinking and cooking. High salts will also corrode metals. Source could be from road salt intrusion in the ground water.

High levels will stain bathrooms, surfaces, and laundry. Cause from natural geology and rich soils.

A rotten egg smell in the water is caused from decaying organic matter. Often found in bog or low coastal areas and usually along with iron issues or bacteria.

Sediments, clays & sands from soils