Household Water Quality Testing Program

Did you know that it is the responsibility of the owners of homes with well water to regularly test water quality, maintain the water system and address any problems? Knowledge is the first step – get started by testing your well, cistern or spring.

Next Water Testing Opportunities 

About the Program

Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) Loudoun offers two events each year that provide affordable and confidential water testing, assistance with understanding test results and information about addressing problems. They occur in the spring and fall. The number of sample kits available is limited, so the earlier you sign up, the better.  

Our program tests for the following 14 water quality parameters: Iron, manganese, nitrate, lead, arsenic, fluoride, sulfate, pH, total dissolved solids, hardness, sodium, copper, total coliform bacteria and E. coli bacteria.

A water testing kit costs $70. A comparable analysis at a private commercial lab would cost more than $300. 

Please note that financial support is available for individuals/families who may need assistance covering this cost. Please email us if you are interested in a need-based scholarship.

How Does the Program Work?

  • Register and pay for your sample kit(s)
  • Pick up your sample kit at the VCE Loudoun office, 750 Miller Drive SE, Suite 161, Leesburg. 
  • Collect water samples at your home and drop off at the VCE Loudoun office, 750 Miller Drive SE, Suite 161, Leesburg.

Samples are then analyzed at Virginia Tech’s Research Lab. You will receive your confidential results, an explanation of what they mean, and information about addressing any problems via email about six weeks after the sample drop off.

More Information

For more information about the water testing program,