What a well water test kit can tell you

No single kit tests for everything. The right choice depends on what you need to know.

Test strips

Strips are cheap and quick, and they work well for basics like hardness and pH. Results are approximate.

Mail-in kits

You collect a sample and send it off for analysis. Check exactly what's measured, because the list varies a lot from one kit to another.

Certified labs

A certified lab is the better choice for health-related questions or a home sale. Follow its sampling instructions closely, especially for bacteria.