Guides ยท Science
Basic Water Testing Basics
Test tap water at home
This guide explains how to test for common tap water metrics like hardness, chlorine, pH, nitrates, and lead using home kits, and what steps to take based on results.
- water testing
- hardness
- chlorine
- lead
- quality
Pick a starter kit
Choose strips or drop kits covering pH, hardness, chlorine; add lead/nitrate tests if risk factors exist.
Collect samples properly
Flush the tap for a minute, use clean containers, and follow kit timing exactly.
Read and record results
Compare to color charts quickly; photograph results and note date and location.
Decide next steps
If levels are off, use filters rated for the contaminant or schedule lab testing for confirmation.