Water Treatment FAQ
Straightforward answers about Rhode Island private wells, public water, testing, evaluations and treatment.
Do you only work on private wells?
No. Colonial treats homes using both private wells and public water systems.
What does a Private Well Water Evaluation cost?
The Private Well Water Evaluation is $39.95. The customer receives a completed inspection report.
Do I need to know which system I need?
No. Determining the appropriate treatment is part of the evaluation process.
Can you tell what is wrong just by looking at a stain?
A stain provides clues, but water testing and chemistry may be necessary before selecting equipment.
Does everyone in the same town have similar well water?
No. Bedrock fractures, well depth, aquifers and local conditions can produce very different water even on nearby properties.
Why have regional water pages if every well is different?
Because location tells us what conditions may be worth investigating. It does not replace testing the home.
How often should I test a private well?
RIDOH recommends annual testing for several basic parameters, additional testing every three to five years, and VOC/MTBE testing every five to ten years, with additional tests based on location and circumstances.
Do you collect laboratory samples?
Yes. Colonial can collect water samples and works with a certified laboratory when laboratory analysis is necessary.
My public-water utility says the water meets standards. Why would I need treatment?
You may not. Residential treatment can be used for individual preferences or household-specific issues such as chlorine taste, hardness, sediment, plumbing-related concerns or additional point-of-use treatment.
What is the first step?
Tell us where you live, where your water comes from and what you are experiencing.