Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about testing, tracking, and protecting your well and septic systems with WellTopo.
Getting started
What is WellTopo?
WellTopo is a management platform for homes on private wells and septic systems. You can order certified water tests, view lab-scored results in a dashboard, and track maintenance and service reminders for your well and septic — all in one place.
How does water testing work?
Order a test kit, collect a sample at home following the included instructions, and ship it back with the prepaid label. Our certified lab analyzes it and your results appear in your WellTopo dashboard — scored, explained, and tracked over time.
How long until I get results?
Most lab-certified results are ready in 5–7 days after the lab receives your sample. You'll get a notification when they're available in your dashboard.
Water quality & the water dilemma
What does a test measure?
A comprehensive panel screens 100+ analytes — bacteria (such as E. coli), nitrates, metals (lead, copper, arsenic, iron), pH, hardness, and more. Each result is scored and grouped by health priority versus aesthetic concern.
Why can't I rely on municipal oversight?
Private wells aren't regulated the way municipal water is — there's no authority testing your water for you. Over 15 million U.S. homes rely on private wells with no routine oversight, making homeowner testing essential.
How often should I test?
Test at least annually for bacteria and nitrates, and after any change in taste, smell, or color. One test gives you a baseline; repeat tests reveal trends — the most powerful way to catch problems early.
Well & septic safety
What maintenance does WellTopo track?
Septic pump-outs, well inspections, filter replacements, and any custom task. WellTopo calculates service intervals automatically and reminds you before deadlines, not after.
How often should a septic system be pumped?
Most residential septic tanks need pumping every 3–5 years depending on tank size and household usage. WellTopo estimates your interval and tracks it for you.
What are signs of a well problem?
Changes in water pressure, sputtering taps, cloudy or discolored water, or new tastes and odors. Log these in WellTopo so you can correlate them with test results and service history.
Account, privacy & pricing
Is my data private?
Your property and test data are yours. We use organizational and technical safeguards to protect your information and never sell it. See our Privacy Policy for details.
What does it cost?
A free trial is available, with paid tiers for advanced features and additional tests. Test kits are purchased as needed with free return shipping.
Can I import past results?
Yes. WellTopo supports importing results from common lab formats (including SimpleLab and TapScore) so your history lives in one place.