Water Treatment Services in Harrisburg, PA
Ever wonder what’s lurking in your drinking water? Here at Handyside Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical, we provide thorough water testing services for Harrisburg homeowners. We offer a variety of tests to analyze your water quality and identify any potential health concerns, along with effective treatment options like water softeners and reverse osmosis systems. Plus, we handle all your HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and drain needs so you can keep your entire home in perfect order. So, if you’re concerned about the quality of your drinking water, contact us today to schedule a test!
"We recently had our 40+ year-old boiler serviced by Adam. He was kind, courteous, professional, and relatable—but most importantly, an excellent teacher. As he disassembled the unit, he explained each component, the most common causes of failure, and which parts to monitor as the boiler approaches its fifth decade. His educational approach was greatly appreciated and instilled confidence in his “something to consider for the future” recommendations."
"We have used Handyside services for 10 years. They do not suggest replacing equipment or parts unless they are definitely needed. The company's expertise in every area we've needed is perfect."
We will absolutely be using Handyside again. Their work was excellent and their employees were friendly and took the time to explain things.
Why Water Testing is Important for Harrisburg Residents
There are several compelling reasons to consider water testing for your Harrisburg home. Here are a few key benefits.
Contaminated water, though often invisible to the naked eye, can harbor a variety of harmful substances like bacteria, lead, arsenic, and nitrates. These can include bacteria, parasites, and even toxic chemicals like lead or arsenic. Ingesting such contaminants can lead to a range of health problems, from mild stomach cramps and diarrhea to more serious illnesses like neurological disorders and certain cancers. Infants, young children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems are especially vulnerable to these dangers.
By testing your water, you can gain valuable knowledge about its quality and take proactive measures to address any present threats. This might involve installing a water treatment device, contacting your local water supplier to report potential issues, or simply having peace of mind knowing your water is safe for consumption and everyday use.
Having your home’s water tested extends far beyond mere personal reassurance; it can ensure compliance with regulations set by local, state, and federal agencies. While there aren’t specific federal mandates for private well testing, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets national standards for public drinking water through the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). These standards regulate contaminants like lead, arsenic, and nitrates.
In Pennsylvania, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) enforces the SDWA and has additional regulations for private wells. They require well owners to test their water for bacteria annually and for certain contaminants like nitrates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) less frequently.
Local regulations can further tighten these requirements. For instance, Harrisburg’s Bureau of Water administers its own well-testing program and may have specific protocols for testing frequency and the range of contaminants analyzed. By proactively testing your water, you can ensure it meets these regulations established to safeguard your health and the environment.
Hard water, laden with calcium and magnesium, can cause mineral buildup over time. This insidious scaling narrows pipes, reducing water pressure and hindering flow. Imagine the strain on your faucets and showerheads as they struggle to push diminished water volume through constricted channels. In worst-case scenarios, excessive scaling can lead to blockages and even pipe bursts, unleashing a plumbing nightmare.
Furthermore, hard water can wreak havoc on your appliances. The same scaling that plagues pipes can fur up the delicate inner workings of your dishwasher and washing machine, reducing their efficiency and lifespan. Hot water heaters are particularly vulnerable; the buildup can insulate heating elements, forcing them to work overtime and potentially leading to premature failure.
By testing your water hardness, you can identify potential problems and install a water softener if necessary. This proactive approach keeps your plumbing system healthy, your appliances functioning effortlessly, and saves you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
Common Types of Water Tests We Do for Harrisburg Homes
At Handyside Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical, we offer a variety of water tests to ensure your drinking water is safe and clean. Below are some common types of water tests we conduct for Harrisburg homes.
This test checks for the total coliform bacteria amount present. Coliform Bacteria is a group of bacteria that can indicate contamination from human or animal wastes. These bacteria themselves may not be harmful, but their presence suggests that other, more harmful pathogens could also be present in your water. Coliform bacteria contamination is a serious health concern and can cause symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and cramps.
Lead and copper can leach from aging pipes and plumbing fixtures into your drinking water. These metals can pose serious health risks, especially for young children and pregnant women. Even low levels of lead exposure can affect cognitive development in children. If your home was built before 1986, it’s especially important to get tested for lead, as lead pipes were commonly used in construction before that time.
High levels of nitrates and nitrites in your water can be harmful, particularly for infants. Nitrates can convert to nitrites in the body, which can interfere with oxygen delivery in the blood, a condition known as methemoglobinemia. This is a serious health risk, especially for babies under six months old. Sources of nitrate contamination can include agricultural runoff from fertilizers or septic systems.
Water’s pH level indicates its acidity or alkalinity. The ideal range for drinking water is between 6.5 and 8.5, which is considered slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. Water that is too acidic can taste sour and corrode pipes. Water that is too alkaline can be scaly and leave residue on dishes and fixtures. A pH test can help identify any imbalances that might affect the taste, corrode pipes, or cause other problems.
Hard water, while not a health risk, can cause problems with soap scum buildup, mineral deposits in appliances, and reduced water pressure. Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. These minerals can react with soap, making it difficult to lather and leaving a filmy residue. They can also build up in appliances like dishwashers and washing machines, reducing their efficiency and lifespan. A hardness test can help determine if a water softener is necessary to address these issues.
We also offer additional tests for other contaminants and pollutants that may affect your water quality. These include tests for pesticides, herbicides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals, total dissolved solids, and more. Pesticides and herbicides can enter your water supply from agricultural runoff, posing health risks over time. VOCs, commonly found in industrial solvents and chemicals, can contaminate your water through spills and improper disposal. Heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, and cadmium can leach into your water from natural deposits or industrial pollution. Our exhaustive testing services can detect these and other contaminants, providing you with a complete understanding of your water quality.
How We Conduct Water Analysis Based On Test Results
Once we receive your water sample, it’s whisked away to a certified water testing laboratory for a rigorous analysis. These national testing laboratories have state-of-the-art equipment and are staffed by highly qualified technicians who follow strict protocols to guarantee the accuracy of your results.
Here’s a glimpse into the drinking water analysis process:
- Sample Preparation: Upon arrival at the lab, your water sample is prepared for testing. This may involve filtering out any larger particles and ensuring proper preservation for comprehensive analysis.
- Advanced Testing Techniques: Depending on the specific tests requested, a variety of sophisticated techniques may be employed. Further drinking water testing can include things like spectroscopy, chromatography, and other methods that precisely measure the presence and concentration of different contaminants.
- Data Analysis and Reporting: Following the testing, the lab analyzes the data and compiles a comprehensive report. This report will detail the specific tests conducted, the levels of any contaminants detected, and how those levels compare to established safety standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or other regulatory bodies.
We then receive the report and translate it for you. We’ll provide you with a clear and easy-to-understand breakdown of what was tested for and the levels detected in your water. We’ll explain what the results mean in layman’s terms, highlighting any areas of concern and what those might indicate. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge you need to make sure your family has pure, clean drinking water.
Post-Testing Water Treatment Options
If your water test reveals any concerning levels of contaminants, fret not! Here at Handyside Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical, we’re your partners in achieving clean, healthy water for your Harrisburg home. Based on the specific contaminants identified in your analysis, we can recommend targeted water treatment devices or other solutions to address the issue.
If your water test reveals high levels of hardness, a water softener can be a lifesaver. Water softeners work by replacing the hardness-causing minerals (calcium and magnesium) with sodium ions. This softened water will lather better with soap, reduce mineral buildup in pipes and appliances, and extend their lifespan.
A reverse osmosis (RO) system may be the answer for a more in-depth filtration solution. RO systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove a wide range of contaminants from your water, including bacteria, heavy metals, nitrates, and dissolved solids. They’re particularly effective for addressing private well water concerns or if you’re looking for the purest possible drinking water.
Distillation systems work by boiling your water and collecting the steam, which condenses into pure water vapor. This process effectively removes virtually all contaminants from your water, including bacteria, minerals, and chemicals. While they produce very clean water, distillation systems can be slow and energy-intensive.
If your primary concern is bacteria in your water, a UV disinfection system can be a good option. UV light disrupts the DNA of bacteria, rendering them harmless. This method is powerful against a wide range of bacteria but won’t remove other contaminants like minerals or heavy metals.
Carbon filtration systems use activated carbon to trap and remove contaminants from your water. They’re great at removing chlorine, taste, and odor-causing compounds, as well as some volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They can be used as a whole-house filtration system or installed on a point-of-use basis, such as under your kitchen sink for drinking water.
Book a Water Testing Service in Harrisburg Today!
Is your drinking water safe? Could hidden contaminants be affecting your health? Don’t wait—contact us today for a thorough water analysis. A small test can make a big difference in your family’s safety, your compliance with government regulations, and the lifespan of your plumbing system.
How to Get a Free Water Test
We offer a free basic water test to all our customers. Our test indicates hardness, pH, and iron. However, there are a few ways to go about getting your free test. First, if a service technician or estimator is already coming to your home, inform them that you would like your FREE water test. You will need to provide them with a sample of water in a container clean of any contaminants. For example, a plastic water bottle that is rinsed with the water being tested is perfect. Please fill the bottle with 8oz. or more.
Or, if you do not have an appointment with us to come to your home, you may drop off a water sample at our office. We will return your results within one business day. If we notice any abnormalities with your water, we can set up an appointment to repair the issues, or provide you with an estimate of the necessary water conditioning equipment to resolve the problem.
FAQs About Water Testing
It is recommended to have your home’s water tested at least once a year or more frequently if you notice any changes in the taste, color, or odor of your water. If you are on a private well, it is especially important to test your water regularly, as there may be potential sources of contamination that can affect the quality of your drinking water.
Unlike public water systems, which are regulated and monitored by the government, home water filtration systems are installed and maintained by residents. While public water systems may use a variety of treatment processes to ensure safe drinking water, home filtration systems add an additional layer of protection against harmful substances lurking in your water.
The length of time it takes for professional water testing can vary depending on the specific tests being conducted and the lab used. In general, most tests can be completed within a few hours to a few days. However, more involved tests may take longer as they require additional analysis and processing.
Once the testing is complete, it may take an additional few days for the results to be analyzed and reported back to you. This timeframe can also depend on the lab’s workload and the complexity of your specific water sample. It is important to note that waiting for test results should not discourage you from getting your water tested. The potential health risks outweigh any inconvenience of waiting for results.
Yes, we offer several water testing options for different types of water sources. This includes well water, tap water, swimming pool water, and more.