How to Get Your Water Tested

OBTAINING TEST RESULTS

The first step to obtaining your sample results is to have your water tested by a trusted drinking water laboratory, such as the Department of Environmental Quality Laboratory Services Section, Drinking Water Laboratory.

FIND A CERTIFIED LAB NEAR YOU

Depending on a laboratory's capacity, you will be mailed a sample kit or can pick it up directly from the laboratory. In some cases, you may be able to schedule a test visit with a laboratory professional at a premium cost.

If you decide to conduct your own water sampling, please ensure that you follow the sample instructions included with your kit. An incorrect sample method is not only nonrefundable, but it will also completely negate your sample results, resulting in a loss of time and money.

Once you have diligently followed the sampling instructions for collecting and returning your water sample, you need to wait anywhere between a few days to a few weeks to receive your results.

WHEN YOUR RESULTS ARRIVE

Unfortunately, the document in front of you may appear extremely technical, making it nearly impossible to interpret your results. If you are feeling this way, take a moment to relax and carefully read the instructions for interpreting your results provided with your sample kit.

Laboratory services are aware that the majority of their customers are not toxicologists, so they generally provide some extra detail to help you understand your results. If you don’t understand the meaning behind your result numbers after rereading the document several times, contact the laboratory service where you obtained your sample.

NEXT: SHARE YOUR TEST RESULTS WITH ALL MICHIGANDERS