Buying guide
How to Test Your Water Before Buying a Filter
Why a water test should come first, and how to choose between home kits and certified lab testing.
By FilterWise Home Editorial Team · Last updated · How we research
Start with what you know
City water customers can request their utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). Private well owners have no such report and are responsible for their own testing.
Home test kits vs. certified labs
Strips and kits are useful for screening hardness, pH, and chlorine. For iron, manganese, bacteria, nitrates, arsenic, or PFAS, use a state-certified laboratory. Your state or county health department can list certified labs.
Match treatment to results
Choose equipment that targets the contaminants actually present. Buying a system for problems you don't have adds cost and maintenance without benefit.