Guides
Practical guides to home water testing — what to test for, strip vs lab accuracy, and how results map to filter choices.
Why this page exists
Most water filter buying guides skip the step that actually matters: testing your water before buying a filter. Without a test, you're matching a solution to a problem you haven't diagnosed. A pitcher filter won't help lead if it's not certified for lead. A carbon filter won't touch nitrates at all.
This page explains what different test types measure, which tests matter for your situation (well vs city, old home vs new), and how to use results to make an informed filter decision rather than a guess.
Water test kits worth searching on eBay
Strip kits, lab-send kits, and parameter-specific tests. We earn a small commission on qualifying sales; your price is unchanged. Full disclosure.
Water test kit
General search covering strip kits and multi-parameter test sets. Compare parameters covered per kit before buying — they vary widely.
Well water test kit
Comprehensive kits designed for private well users. Look for kits that include coliform bacteria, nitrates, hardness, iron, pH, and lead as a minimum panel.
Drinking water test kit
Multi-parameter kits calibrated for drinking water standards. Many send-to-lab kits in this category provide certified lab results with quantitative contaminant levels.
Water hardness test strips
Fast at-home reading for calcium/magnesium hardness. Tells you whether you need a water softener and helps with soap dosage and appliance maintenance planning.
Lead water test kit
For homes built before 1986 or with unknown pipe history. At-home lead tests can indicate presence; send-to-lab tests provide quantitative levels vs EPA action level (15 ppb).