BioScan Microbiological Water Test

Your Water May Pass a Standard Test and Still Have a Problem

Most water tests screen for chemicals, minerals, and basic bacteria counts. But what lives in your water at a microscopic level tells a much deeper story. That’s where the ETR BioScan goes beyond what standard water testing can offer.

Developed and performed exclusively in ETR’s own laboratory, the BioScan is a comprehensive microbiological water test that combines full chemical and mineral analysis with an in-depth biological examination of your water sample. Under microscopic analysis, our water quality experts identify and quantify the bacteria, fungi, yeast, mold, and algae present in your water — including both commonly found and lesser-known organisms that standard tests never screen for. Particle counts are also recorded, giving you a complete biological profile of what’s in your water.

This level of microbiological analysis is rare in residential water testing, and it’s something ETR has developed and refined in-house over many years.

What the BioScan Tests For

In addition to the full microbiological screen, this test covers a wide range of health and safety parameters including Total Coliform, E. coli, Lead, Arsenic, Radon, Nitrate, Ammonia, pH, Hardness, Iron, Manganese, Copper, Sodium, Chloride, Turbidity, Total Dissolved Solids, and more than 50 volatile organic compounds including Benzene, Toluene, Vinyl Chloride, Trichloroethylene, MTBE, and Tetrachloroethylene.

How It Works

Order your test and we’ll mail you a sample collection kit with easy-to-follow instructions. Collect a water sample from your tap and send it back to us. Results are typically delivered within 7 to 10 business days from the date your sample arrives at our lab.

Understanding Your Results

Microbiological water test results can be difficult to interpret on your own, especially when unfamiliar organisms are identified. Every BioScan includes a free consultation with one of our in-house water quality experts. Simply email us or give us a call after receiving your results and we’ll walk you through exactly what was found, what it means for your household, and what steps to take if anything of concern is detected.

This is the test we recommend for private well owners, households with immunocompromised members, anyone noticing unusual odors, discoloration, or slime in their water, and homebuyers who want a thorough biological picture of their water quality before closing.