Well or borehole water: should it be analyzed before drinking it?
A well or a borehole in the garden is free and available water… but not necessarily potable. Unlike tap water, it is not treated. not controlled by the ARS It is up to the owner to ensure its quality. Here’s what you need to know before drinking it.
Uncontrolled water
Groundwater may appear clear but actually contains bacteria, nitrates or pesticides from neighboring crops, metals, PFASs or, near the coast, salt. Its quality can also vary depending on the seasons and rainfall.
What the regulations say
- Declaration at the town hall Any well or borehole for domestic use must be declared to the mayor (Cerfa form 13837), under Article L. 2224-9 of the General Code of Territorial Collectivities.
- Analyze whether the water is drunk : when the water is intended for human consumption, the declaration must be accompanied by a P1 type analysis, performed by a laboratory approved by the Ministry responsible for health.
- Follow-up : An analysis does not guarantee permanent potability. The ARS recommend at least one analysis per year.
Which parameters should be analyzed?
- Bacteriology : E. coli, enterococci… the most immediate risk to health;
- Nitrates and pesticides, Especially in agricultural areas;
- Metals (iron, manganese, arsenic…) ;
- PFAS, If your sector is affected by known pollution;
- Conductivity and chlorides : salinity indicators, to be monitored near the sea;
- Turbidity (turbid water, sediment).
The nearest accredited laboratory can advise you on the appropriate «pack» of tests based on your region.
How to treat the water from a well?
The treatment depends on the results of the analysis, but it generally follows three steps:
- Remove the sediments : one 20″ filter holder with a sediment cartridge 25 microns protects the installation.
- Purifier : a high-speed osmoseur like the’Osmoseur Slim 4″ Pro eliminates bacteria, viruses, nitrates, pesticides and PFAS.
- Case of salty water Near the coast, the’Osmoseur Slim 4″ Pro special for muddy water, or even the version sea water, Remove the salt.
After treatment, a new analysis allows to verify that the water is indeed compliant.
No drilling? Produce your own water from air
If you do not have a well or if the aquifer is too polluted, a atmospheric water generator produces pure water from the moisture in the air, without depending on the underground.
In summary
- The water from a well or a borehole is not tested: have it analyzed before drinking it, and then at least once a year.
- Declare your well at the town hall and attach a P1 analysis if the water is drunk.
- Sediment filtration + reverse osmosis: the safest combination.
Send us your analysis results: we will advise you free of charge on the appropriate treatment. Contact us.
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