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Residential Drinking Water

Impact Microbiology Services recognizes the need for accurate, accessible and affordable water testing for Maritime communities. With hundreds of thousands of privately owned wells in the region, bacterial testing for your drinking source may often be forgotten. It is in fact an increasingly important activity to keep your family, pets, renters and employees safe if you are using a private well. Heavy rains, flooding, storms and environmental events can increase the chances of well contamination. The government recommends testing private well’s at least twice per year for bacterial load, to ensure proper monitoring and be able to resolve contamination if it occurs to minimize health risks.

As an accredited laboratory serving the food and beverage industry with pathogen analysis, training and expertise in the Maritimes and New England for over 22 years IMS, keeping people safe is our top priority. This is why in 2024 IMS is extending our offering of microbial testing to residential drinking water as a service to available to the general public.

IMS provides accurate, affordable and accessible microbial testing for drinking water to homeowners, home buyers, businesses and contractors with simple to use sample kits and instructions. Contact us today to set up a sample bottle pick up at our lab in Fredericton or form a local depot.

Stay safe, sip smart! IMS makes water testing easy. Pick up a complimentary sample bottle today!
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Drinking Water and Bacteria: Why is it a concern?

Concerns around coliforms, E. coli, and heterotrophic bacteria in drinking water are primarily centered on health risks, water quality, and the effectiveness of water treatment processes.

What Are Coliforms?

Coliform bacteria are a group of microorganisms commonly found in the environment, including soil, vegetation, and in warm-blooded animals. They are not necessarily harmful themselves but are used as indicators of potential contamination.

Concerns:

  1. Indicator of Contamination:
    • The presence of coliforms indicates that there could be a pathway for pathogens (disease-causing microorganisms) to enter the water supply.
  2. Potential Presence of Pathogens:
    • If coliforms are found, harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites might also be present.
  3. System Integrity:
    • Detection suggests that there might be a breach in the water distribution system, such as a broken pipe or a failing water treatment process.

What is E. coli?

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a specific type of coliform bacteria that is found in the intestines of animals and humans. Some strains of E. coli are harmless, but others, like E. coli O157, can cause illness.

Concerns:

  1. Health Risks:
    • Pathogenic strains can cause gastrointestinal illness, including severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. In extreme cases, it can be potentially fatal.
  2. Fecal Contamination:
    • The presence of E. coli indicates fecal contamination, meaning that sewage or animal waste has entered the water supply.
    • If E. coli is detected, action is needed to locate and eliminate the source of contamination.

What is Heterotrophic Bacteria?

Heterotrophic bacteria are a diverse group of microorganisms that use organic carbon for growth. They are present in all types of water and are not typically harmful.

Concerns:

  1. Indicator of Water Quality:
    • High levels of heterotrophic bacteria can indicate general water quality issues and ineffective disinfection practices.
  2. Biofilm Formation:
    • These bacteria can form biofilms on surfaces within the water distribution system, which can protect more harmful pathogens and interfere with water treatment processes.
  3. Aesthetic Issues:
    • While not usually harmful, high levels can cause water to have an unpleasant taste, odor, or appearance.

Overall Health Implications

  • Risk of Illness: Contaminated water can cause a range of illnesses, from mild gastrointestinal distress to severe and life-threatening diseases.
  • Vulnerable Populations: Children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly at risk and more frequent water quality monitoring may be needed.