Nitrates, Residential Only

Test for Total Nitrates in Drinking Water

This test is available for private drinking water only.  Not suitable for regulatory compliance.

What is nitrate?

Nitrates and nitrites are nitrogen-oxygen chemical units which combine with various organic and inorganic compounds. The greatest use of nitrates is as a fertilizer. Once taken into the body, nitrates are converted to nitrites.

What are nitrate's health effects?

Infants below six months who drink water containing nitrate in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome.

How does nitrate get into my drinking water?

The major sources of nitrates in drinking water are runoff from fertilizer use; leaking from septic tanks, sewage; and erosion of natural deposits.

Your test kit will include sample bottles and easy to follow sample collection instructions. When testing is complete, a report will be issued identifying any problems detected with your sample. Please note: this test package must be returned to the lab within 24 hours of collection.