How Oshawa is built
- Before 1961 24%
- 1961–1990 43%
- 1991–2000 8%
- 2001 or later 25%
Wells in Oshawa
Most of Oshawa is on Durham Region water, but rural north Oshawa homes rely on private wells (a 2020 local news report says residents north of Columbus Road draw well water from the Oak Ridges Moraine).
How testing works in Ontario
Free bacteria testing through Public Health Ontario labs: pick up a kit at a PHO lab or your public health unit and drop it back off. Chemistry (nitrate, sodium, metals) goes to a licensed private lab for a fee. Local health units recommend testing at least three times a year: spring, summer and fall.
What to test for
- Bacteria (total coliforms and E. coli): at least once a year, and after flooding, heavy rain or work on the well.
- Nitrate, especially near farmland or septic systems.
- Metals and naturally occurring contaminants such as arsenic, uranium or manganese when a well is new and every few years after, depending on local geology.
Well water testing in Oshawa: common questions
Is well water testing free in Ontario?
Free bacteria testing through Public Health Ontario labs: pick up a kit at a PHO lab or your public health unit and drop it back off. Chemistry (nitrate, sodium, metals) goes to a licensed private lab for a fee. Local health units recommend testing at least three times a year: spring, summer and fall.
How often should I test my well?
For bacteria, at least once a year and after flooding, heavy rain or well work; many health units recommend more often. Test chemistry when the well is new and every few years after.
Are private wells common in Oshawa?
Most of Oshawa is on Durham Region water, but rural north Oshawa homes rely on private wells (a 2020 local news report says residents north of Columbus Road draw well water from the Oak Ridges Moraine).