The short answer
Why Testing Matters
Floodwater can carry hidden dangers. It may contain sewage, agricultural runoff, fuel, or industrial chemicals. Even clear-looking water can harbor harmful bacteria like E. Coli or coliform. Drinking or cooking with contaminated water can make you sick, so you need to know what is in it before you use it.
Your senses are not enough to detect many pollutants. Color and odor can clue you in, but they do not tell you the whole story. A laboratory test gives you a clear picture of what you are dealing with, so you can make informed decisions about cleanup and safety.
What to Check For
Common contaminants in floodwater include bacteria, viruses, parasites, and chemicals. If the flood came from a river or stream, it might carry agricultural pesticides or fertilizers. Urban flooding often picks up oil, gasoline, and heavy metals from roads and parking lots.
You also want to check for sediment and debris that can clog pipes or damage appliances. If you have a private well, you should test for coliform bacteria, nitrates, and any local contaminants. Your local health department can tell you what is most likely in your area.
- Bacteria like E. Coli and coliform
- Viruses and parasites
- Chemical pollutants like oil, pesticides, and heavy metals
- Sediment and debris
- Nitrates from fertilizers or septic systems
How to Test Your Water
For a reliable test, you need to collect a water sample and send it to a laboratory. Contact your local health department or a state-approved lab for instructions. They will provide a sterile container and tell you exactly how to collect the sample without contamination.
Follow the lab's directions carefully. Usually, you run the water for a few minutes before filling the bottle, then cap it tightly and mail it in. Do not touch the inside of the lid or the bottle mouth. Keep the sample cool and get it to the lab quickly.
When to Test Again
After a flood, test your water once the immediate danger has passed. If you have a private well, test it after the floodwaters recede and the well has been disinfected. Also test if you notice any change in taste, smell, or color, or if anyone in your home gets sick.
If you are unsure whether your water is safe, use bottled water for drinking, cooking, and brushing teeth until you have test results. That is a simple precaution that protects your household. Once you get the results, you can decide if you need a treatment system or further action.
What to Do with the Results
If your test shows contamination, do not use the water for drinking, cooking, or bathing until it is treated. Boiling can kill bacteria, but it will not remove chemicals. For chemical contamination, you may need a specific filtration system or a new water source.
For cleanup, you still need to treat your home. Floodwater can soak into walls, floors, and belongings, leaving behind moisture and contaminants. A water damage inspection can help you find hidden wet areas, and professional cleanup can remove affected materials safely.
If you live in Euless, keep your local water testing lab contact information handy. Knowing who to call before an emergency makes the process smoother when you need answers fast.
- Boil water only for biological contamination
- Use bottled water until you know it is safe
- Consider a whole-house filtration system for chemicals
- Have a professional inspect your home for hidden moisture
Need help right now?
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Can I test floodwater myself with a home kit?
Home test kits can check for some bacteria, but they are not as thorough as a lab test. They may miss chemicals or other contaminants. For a complete picture, send a sample to a lab for professional analysis.
How long does it take to get water test results?
Lab results typically take a few days to a week. It depends on the lab and the type of test. While you wait, use bottled water for drinking and cooking to stay safe.
What if my water tests positive for bacteria?
If bacteria show up, do not drink the water. Boil it for at least one minute before use, or use bottled water. After you disinfect your well or system, retest to confirm it is clean.