Turn the assessment into a plan.
The next step may be whole-home filtration, an under-sink system, reverse osmosis or a softener. Rock can explain the installation and ongoing maintenance before you choose.
Bring the results into the equipment discussion. Ask which concern each proposed stage addresses, what it leaves untreated and how you will maintain it. Keep the report with the system’s model and service records so later recommendations start from the same information.
Know what the assessment covers.
A hardness assessment helps plan softening. It does not answer every question about drinking-water quality. Before the appointment, ask which measurements Rock will take and whether your concern calls for a separate sample analyzed by a certified laboratory.
- HardnessMeasures the calcium and magnesium associated with scale. It helps plan softening.
- Total dissolved solidsTDS describes a combined amount of dissolved material. It does not identify each constituent or replace testing for a specific contaminant.
- pHDescribes how acidic or alkaline the water is. It is a separate measurement from hardness and TDS.
- Contaminant analysisA certified laboratory uses the appropriate method for the substance or organism being investigated. Confirm which analysis your question requires.
Follow the laboratory’s sampling instructions.
Different tests can need different bottles, tap preparation and delivery times. Ask the laboratory for the right kit before collecting water, and tell it whether the sample will come from untreated water or a treated tap. An unplanned sample may not answer the question you wanted to investigate.
- Before collectionConfirm the test panel, laboratory, sample kit, fees and collection instructions.
- Sample locationIdentify untreated water versus a treated tap so the result answers the intended question.
- Handling and deliveryFollow the lab’s instructions for containers, preservation, temperature and delivery time.
- Reading the reportCheck the units, collection date and laboratory comments. Ask the lab or health department about a result you do not understand.