The Eastern Ontario Health Unit offers free water testing to private households that draw their drinking water from a well, and recommends that wells be tested at least three times a year. Owners of wells are responsible for ensuring the drinking safety (potability) of their water. Free water-test bottles can be picked up and returned at the Health Unit office nearest you for testing. Water is being tested for bacteria only. People who wish to test their water for the presence of other substances like chemicals or minerals need to send their sample to a private lab.

Businesses and institutions such as restaurants, schools, daycares, lodging homes, campgrounds and trailer parks that are on well water are responsible for ensuring a safe water supply for their guests and customers. These places are required to take water samples on a monthly basis, and the results must be available for review by the Health Unit.

Find Out More

To order the pamphlets How Well is Your Well and Well Aware, call
613-933-1375 or 1 800 267-7120 and ask for the Health Line.

Water Sample Drop-Off Hours

How to Disinfect Your Well (Healthful)

How to Understand the Results of Your Well Water Tests (Healthful)

Nitrate in Private Water Supplies (Healthful)