Regular testing helps protect against harmful bacteria and ensures a clean, safe water supply for your household.
As the seasons change and spring arrives, private well owners are reminded of the importance of testing their drinking water to ensure it is safe for consumption. Groundwater is typically clean and safe, but contamination can occur due to improper well installation, run-off water, or other environmental factors. Regular testing is the only way to confirm your water is free from harmful bacteria.
The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR District Health Unit) urges well owners to test their drinking water at least twice a year – once in the spring and again in the fall – to protect against potential health risks. Drinking contaminated water can lead to illnesses such as stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea.
Testing for bacteria, including E. coli and total coliforms, is provided free of charge by the Ontario Public Health Laboratories for private well owners.
How to Test Your Well Water
1. Pick Up a Free Water Testing Kit – Sterile sample collection bottles are available at various locations
across the HKPR District Health Unit area.
2. Collect Your Sample Properly – Follow the instructions carefully to avoid contamination. Use only
the provided sterile bottle and ensure your sample is kept cool during transport.
3. Drop Off Your Sample – Water samples must be submitted to the public health lab within 48 hours
of collection. There are several drop-off locations available for convenience.
4. Get Your Results – Test results are available within two to four business days and can be accessed by
telephone, mail, email, or in person.
Where to Pick Up and Drop Off Water Samples
Water sample collection kits can be picked up and dropped off at multiple locations throughout the district area, including:
• HKPR District Health Unit offices in Haliburton, Lindsay, and Port Hope
• Local municipal service centers and public libraries
• Select pharmacies
For a complete list of locations and hours, visit hkpr.on.ca/WellWaterTesting or contact the HKPR District Health Unit by phone: 1-866-888-4577 ext. 5006.
Understanding Your Test Results
If your test results indicate the presence of coliform bacteria or E. coli, your well water may be contaminated.
Immediate actions such as disinfecting your well, identifying the source of contamination, and retesting the water are necessary. If needed, private laboratories can also test for additional contaminants like chemicals and minerals.
Protect Your Drinking Water Year-Round
Proper well maintenance is key to ensuring safe drinking water. Regularly inspect your well for damage, keep it properly sealed, and ensure it is positioned away from potential contamination sources. If you have any concerns about your well water quality, consult a professional or contact the HKPR District Health Unit for guidance.
For more information on well water testing and maintaining a safe water supply, visit
hkpr.on.ca/WellWaterTesting or contact the HKPR District Health Unit by phone: 1-866-888-4577 ext. 5006.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
