Want to Test Your Private Drinking Water?

Read the following information, and follow the instructions carefully.

Click here to download the water testing form.

Method for Collecting Drinking Water Samples

Only samples collected in bottles supplied by Hickory County Health Dept. and collected according to these instructions will be accepted for testing.

Do not open bottles until all instructions have been read!

1. Remove aeration devices and screens from faucets. Open tap full and let water run 2-3 minutes.
2. Flame sterilize the tap from nose to valve, making sure the open end is well heated
3. OR disinfect chemically by thoroughly rinsing inside and outside of the tap with a 100 ppm solution of sodium hypochlorite. If tap cleanliness is questionable, all the solution to remain in contact with the tap for up to 15 minutes, or increase the strength of the solution to ensure adequate disinfection. 100 ppm sodium hypochlorite solution can be made by mixing 1/4 oz. (1.5 tsp) household bleach with one gallon clean water.
4. Flush the tap for 2-3 minutes, then reduce to a gentle flow to fill the bottle without splashing.
5. Do not rinse the sampling bottle. Keep bottle closed until ready to fill. The bottles contain a chlorine neutralizer, are sterile and ready to use.
6. Hold the bottle so the water entering it will not come in contact with your hands. Allow water to flow smoothly and fill to the 100 ml line as indicated on the bottle. Sample will not be tested if not filled to the line. 
7. Replace cap and tighten securely.

PLEASE NOTE; Water samples are accepted for testing Monday through Thursday only. Test are not accepted Fridays since water samples are incubated 24 hours and results read the following day. Samples must be received at the Health dept. within 3o hours of collection. Results will be mailed. If your results are unsatisfactory, you will also receive instructions on how to disinfect your well.