Bore Water
Private bores should be tested for faecal contamination (E. coli) and chemical quality prior to use. Bore water intended for human consumption (that’s drinking, cooking, use in swimming pools or watering edible plants) should be tested for the following parameters:
• Step 1 testing: $89
E. coli, Fluoride, Nitrate, Arsenic,TDS
If these are satisfactory you may choose to conduct Step 2 testing for a more comprehensive analysis.
• Step 2 testing: $83
Sb, Ba, B, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Mo, Ni, Se, SO4
Volatile organic compounds: POA
They are generally introduced to the environment through careless industrial practices, and are usually only applicable for urban bores. Please contact the lab for prices.
Tank Water: $37
By far the greatest potential risk to your health comes from contamination of water with harmful microorganisms such as bacteria and parasites from bird or animal droppings.
E. coli (as an indicator of faecal contamination)
Tank Water Quality & corrosivity index: $90
The chemical composition of tank water will affect its capacity to dissolve or precipitate minerals. Rainwater tanks can be contaminated from roof or plumbing materials. The common chemical contaminants are iron, lead, zinc and copper. pH and electrical conductivity also provide an idea of the general water quality. The Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) is a calculated number used as an indicator of water corrosivity
Fe, Pb, Zn, Cu, pH, eC, TDS, Ca Hardness, Alkalinity, LSI & E.coli
A printable version of this information can be found at the following link.
While it makes sense to harvest the clean, purified water which falls out of the sky, there are a number of factors which can compromise the quality of this water. The following fact sheet from the NSW Department of Health may be useful for maintaining rainwater