The primary reason for adding chlorine to water is to make it safe to drink by killing or inactivating harmful microorganisms that cause diseases such as stomach bugs.Chlorine is also added for its "residual" properties. Chlorine remaining in the water supply, or added after disinfection is first done, is available to fight against potential contamination (making water not pure) in water pipes and storage tanks that might enter through leaks and pipe breakages. This is called "secondary disinfection."

Hardness is the measure of mineral content in the water. Typically, calcium and magnesium are the primary contributing factors to hardness. Water hardness increases with more calcium and magnesium content.

Hard water can include formation of scale inside pipes and fixtures. White particulates may form inside faucet aerators due to this. Appliances may

be worn down faster due to hard water. White residue may be spotted on appliances such as shower walls, dishes and, glasses. Hard water can cause difficulty in developing soap lather and cleaning clothes. Metallic taste and/or odor may be noticed.

Generally, groundwater in Connecticut is naturally acidic due to the surrounding soils and bedrock. The pH of drinking water is not a health concern, however, acidic water (low pH) can leach metals (e.g.; lead, copper, zinc, etc.) from plumbing systems, which can cause health problems.

As a well owner, you can prevent contamination and monitor your water quality by doing the following:

• Annually test your water quality for contaminants. Keep records to document your water quality over time.
• Test your water as soon as you notice any changes to its taste, color or odor.
• Protect your well head. Learn its location and inspect for signs of damage or tampering.
• Install a secure well cap or sanitary seal.
• Carefully manage activities near your water source. Avoid mixing or using pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, degreasers, fuels and other pollutants near the well. Keep hazardous chemicals out of your septic system

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Even if you do not suspect any well water problems, it is important to test your water to ensure that it is safe to drink. Water should be tested yearly and it's recommended to test after repair or replacement of your well, pump or water pipes. Coliform bacteria, nitrates, nitrites, pH, odor, hardness, chloride, sulfate, manganese, iron, turbidity and color are considered basic recommended testing.

When properly sized and maintained, your well pump should operate efficiently for many years before you'll need to consider a well pump replacement. Warning signs of pumps failure include no water, low water pressure and the well pump constantly running.