Two kinds of tests, both useful
| Jorge's in-home test | Certified lab test | |
|---|---|---|
| Measures | Iron, hardness, pH, dissolved solids, sulfur signs, chlorine | Bacteria, nitrate, lead and specific contaminants |
| Answers | What treatment the water needs | Whether specific health-related standards are met |
| Cost | Free | Charged by the lab |
What Florida DOH recommends for wells
- Bacteria and nitrate at least once a year.
- Lead every three years for most homeowners.
- Additional tests depending on land use nearby.
- Use a certified laboratory; DOH links to the state's list.
DOH points out that bacteria and nitrate can reach wells through septic systems, livestock areas and fertilizer, all common in a rural town of ranches and nurseries. Florida also does not require well sampling when a private home is sold.
Buying a Ranches property
If you are buying, test before closing. Ask for the well's permit history, its depth if known, the age of the pump and pressure tank, and any existing treatment equipment and service records. Jorge's test shows what the treatment needs to be; a lab test answers the bacteria and nitrate questions.
Keep copies of every result. A record over several years shows whether your well is stable or changing, which is useful for you and for any future buyer.
If you are on utility water
For homes on City of Sunrise water, Jorge tests total and free chlorine, hardness and dissolved solids and compares them with Sunrise's annual report for your service area. Sunrise also offers its UCMR 5 unregulated contaminant results on request by email or at (954) 888-6000.
At the visit
- Jorge asks about your source, existing equipment and what you notice.
- He tests at the kitchen, a bathroom, and the well or irrigation line if relevant.
- He explains each number and what it means for treatment.
- He recommends a system only if it fits.
More in what happens during a home water assessment and home screening vs. lab analysis.
Barns, animals and gardens
If the same well serves stalls, troughs or a vegetable garden, mention it. Jorge can test at those points too, so you know whether staining or smells there come from the same water as the house. Questions about water for livestock health belong with your veterinarian; the test is about what the water contains and how to treat it.
Book it
Call, text or WhatsApp Jorge at (305) 793-5974.
https://www.floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/private-well-testing/index.html
https://www.sunrisefl.gov/departments-services/utilities/water-quality
https://www.southwestranches.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/2021ComprehensivePlan.pdf
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist