Water Testing for Home Sales

Water Testing for Home Sales

Air & Water Quality explains why Maine home sellers should test water and radon before listing their properties. The company notes that Maine has high radon levels in both air and water, with the invisible gas being the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. The team explains that radon forms naturally in the ground and seeps into homes through foundations before dissolving into well water. The recommended limits are 4.0 pCi/L for air and 4,000 pCi/L for water, and fixing problems typically costs $1,000-$1,500 for air systems and slightly more for water. The guide lists what home buyers usually check for: coliform bacteria, E.coli, uranium, arsenic, lead, copper, nitrates, and radon in private wells. The company argues that sellers should test before listing rather than waiting for buyer inspections, since this avoids surprises, speeds up closing, and strengthens negotiating position (not to mention that failed water tests can lead to price cuts, delayed closings, or canceled deals). With over 16,000 systems installed since 1989, Air & Water Quality looks to position itself as the trusted local expert for Maine homeowners dealing with water quality and radon issues.

Chlorine or UV Light?

Springwell released a blog post comparing two common ways to disinfect water. The water treatment company explains how chlorine creates an acid that destroys microbe DNA, while UV light damages germs so they can't reproduce. Chlorine works well for everyday germs and costs less, but it struggles with tough parasites (like Cryptosporidium and Giardia) and it can also create cancer-causing chemicals when it mixes with organic matter in water. UV light kills 99.99% of germs including the ones chlorine can't handle, and it doesn't use chemicals or change how water tastes. The downside is UV needs electricity and doesn't keep protecting water after treatment like chlorine does. Springwell breaks down when to use each method: pick chlorine for cheap, easy protection against common germs, or choose UV for chemical-free treatment when dealing with tough parasites.

A Simple Guide

Arizona-based Just Plumbing published A Simple Guide That Actually Works explaining how to keep water filters working properly. The company walks through why maintenance matters, noting that clogged filters stop blocking contaminants and can become breeding grounds for bacteria that add new problems to water. Just Plumbing breaks down different filter types and their schedules: carbon filters need changing every 6-12 months, RO membranes last 2-5 years, UV lamps need yearly replacement, and whole house pre-filters require swaps every 3-6 months. The guide lists warning signs that filters need attention like decreased water pressure, weird tastes or smells, cloudy water, or visible particles. Just Plumbing recommends using calendar reminders or subscription services to track replacement dates, plus keeping a maintenance log with photos that can extend system life by 30%. The company explains safe cleaning methods using mild soap and diluted bleach solution, warning against harsh chemicals that can damage parts.

Pressure Testing Equipment

Tampa-based R2J wrote a post detailing how pressure testing equipment helps keep water treatment systems safe and running properly. The company walks through how these tests work: operators connect testing equipment to pipes or tanks, fill them with water or air, then use a pump to apply pressure while gauges track whether the system holds steady. R2J explains that pressure drops during testing point to leaks or weak spots that need fixing before bigger problems happen. The guide covers what to look for when picking equipment, including matching test capacity to system pressure, making sure hoses and fittings resist corrosion, and choosing tools with clear gauges that are easy to use. Key components include hoses that spread pressure evenly, adapters that connect to different valve types, gauges that display readings, and protection gear for operators. The team notes that regular pressure testing catches problems early, extends equipment life, and keeps systems running efficiently without wasting energy.

What else is happening:

• KCCI in Des Moines reports on funding cuts that could put Iowa's water quality monitoring system at risk despite nitrate levels already among the highest in the nation

• PA-based Dierolf Plumbing and Water Treatment writes a spooky blog post about the hidden monsters in tap water

• Moore Water & Air posts an article on troubleshooting common water softener issues and includes a testimonial from their Google Reviews page

• Long Island Clean Water Service (LICWS) writes about how EcoWater filters enhance water quality and the NSF/ANSI they have