Question 1

I want to test my water, but how does it work?"

Accepted Answer

1) Give us a call to see what testing kit you'll need for your situation.
2) Collect water sample, or have someone from TCWC collect it for you.
3) Bring samples into the laboratory.
4) We analyze your water for the testing that's needed.
5) You receive a full report with our findings

Question 2

How do I know which tests are needed for my water?

Accepted Answer

Call us at (952) 935-3556 and we'll be able to asses your situation and what tests are needed.

Question 3

How often should I test my water?

Accepted Answer

Coliform Bacteria - Every Year
Nitrate - Every Other Year
Lead - At Least Once
Arsenic - At Least Once
 
See the link below for Minnesota Department of Health's recommendation.
 
https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/wells/waterquality/tips.html

Question 4

Can I collect my own water samples or does TCWC need to do it?

Accepted Answer

That depends; if you are purchasing or selling a house some loans (VA & FHA) will require a third party to collect the sample to ensure there is no bias in the results. Otherwise you are able to collect the water samples by following some simple instructions you can find here.
 
If you don't feel comfortable collecting the sample or simply just don't have the time, we'd be more than happy to come to you and retreive the sample!

Question 5

I don't have a science background, will I be able to do an at home kit?"

Accepted Answer

Yes! You don't need a science background to be able to collect your own water, it is simple and easy to do. Click on this link to download our instructions.

Question 6

My water looks, smells, and tastes great - do I need a water test?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, some of the of the most harmful contaminants have no obvious odor, color, or taste to them.

Question 7

I have a private well that was tested when it was installed, do I need to retest?"

Accepted Answer

Well water should be tested on an annual basis since contaminants can seep into the ground water and into your drinking supply without you even knowing it!

Question 8

I have a water filter, how would I be able to tell if it's working or not?"

Accepted Answer

Unless you get your water tested, you wouldn't. Variations of water condition can affect the performance of a filter and maintenance issues within the filter can change how effective it is.

Question 9

I can get water tests from the company that I bought my filter from, how is this different?"

Accepted Answer

Twin City Water Clinic is an independent, certified lab that has nothing to gain from your water results unlike the filter company. We do not sell water treatment products, nor are we affiliated with anyone who does.

Question 10

What could possibly contaminate my drinking water?

Accepted Answer

There are many potential causes of water contamination. The most common threats would be: 
Lead pipes in the home
Septic system leaks
Living close to farm fields, brownfields, or other agricultural land
 
Other potential threats that could be near you:
Mines
Gas stations
Old cemeteries
Dumps
Improper disposal of paints, motor oils, etc on private land
Recreational use of the public water supply 
Acid rain
Decaying matter or other natural contamination

Question 11

How many types of contaminants are there?

Accepted Answer

While there are many specific types of contamination, it can be sorted out into four broad categories: 
Microbial Pollutants 
Inorganic Chemical Pollutants
Organic Chemical Pollutants 
Radiological Pollutants 
What type of contamination you have will determine what solution you need to use to correct it.

Question 12

My water doesn't taste good, but the results came out fine. What does this mean?"

Accepted Answer

There are two types of water problems
 
1) Primary - this affects your health
2) Aesthetics - this affects the taste, look, or smell of the water
 
Strange as it may seem, you could have an aesthetic problem that makes your water not taste good but doesn't actually pose as a health risk. Two common examples are heightened sulfur levels that make your water smell like rotten eggs or high iron levels that could stain your sink or shower.

Question 13

What do I do if I find out my water is unsafe?

Accepted Answer

Because there are many different types of problems, each problem must be addressed separatley. 
 
Immediately switch to bottle water for all consumption until the problem is addressed. This includes drinking, cooking, washing produce or dishes, giving water to pets, or using it to brush your teeth. 
 
Once the problem is solved, be sure to have follow up water tests done. 
 
See below for Minnesota Department of Health's recommendation.
https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/docs/factsheet/hometreatment.pdf

Frequently Asked Questions