Frequently Asked Questions

Answers and information on our most frequently asked questions

My water smells, what should I test for?
Water sources can develop an odour due to a number of reasons.: A chlorine smell could be due to an incomplete chlorination treatment.  Organic matter...
Wed, 23 Jul, 2025 at 12:18 PM
My water is coloured - what should I test for?
Metals, particulates (both inorganic and organic) and tannins & lignins can all be possible causes of coloured water. For more information you can r...
Wed, 23 Jul, 2025 at 12:20 PM
I have deposits in my pipes and/or sinks.
Particulate build up can often be contributed to organic material, rusting pipes, scale and/or sediments.   A water quality package can help determine t...
Wed, 23 Jul, 2025 at 12:22 PM
My water tastes off
Metals are a common culprit of odd tasting water. However it may not be the only source. A water quality test kit can help determine the possible source of ...
Wed, 23 Jul, 2025 at 12:23 PM
I live near an agricultural zone and want to test for pesticides
We can certainly help with that request.  If you suspect a particular type of pesticide has been used, we can utilize a targeted test scan.   If not...
Wed, 23 Jul, 2025 at 12:24 PM
The RPD (Relative Percent Difference) wasn't calculated
RPDs are typically calculated when both sample results are greater than 5 times the reporting detection limit (RDL).   When one or both of the sample re...
Wed, 23 Jul, 2025 at 12:25 PM
Using alternative supplier's containers for sampling
When faced with a sampling event where you do not have containers readily available from the laboratory to which you will be submitting your samples, altern...
Wed, 23 Jul, 2025 at 12:26 PM
Why is the turnaround time for hydraulic conductivity so long?
What is the turnaround time for hydraulic conductivity and why is it so long? Hydraulic Conductivity (also known as KSAT) has a longer turnaround time (...
Wed, 23 Jul, 2025 at 12:27 PM
How do I submit samples for hydraulic conductivity (KSAT)?
Soil samples for saturated hydraulic conductivity (KSAT) can be collected and submitted in several ways including: Loose soil (in well-sealed Ziploc bags ...
Wed, 23 Jul, 2025 at 12:31 PM
What is the cost for hydraulic conductivity (KSAT) in soil?
All our pricing and capability fee schedules can be found here. 
Fri, 11 Apr, 2025 at 12:54 PM