HOME INSPECTION REPORT:

The home inspection performed is a limited visual inspection to identify systems and components in need of immediate repair.  The inspection will conform to the Standards of Practice of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and will include the following systems: roof, structure, electrical, interior plumbing, heating and cooling, exterior siding and trim, doors and windows, chimneys and fireplaces, driveways, walkways and site grading. The evaluation will be based on observations that are primarily visual and non-invasive. The inspection and report are not intended to be technically exhaustive. This written report is a summary of observations and unbiased opinions and is based on the experience of the inspector. 

This Inspection Report outlines and defines the areas of the home that were inspected, as well as indicating any items that were not inspected, the reason they were not inspected, and general statements of what is commonly included and excluded during an inspection.  This written Inspection Report, together with a home inspection agreement, and any reports for additional services ordered, represent the final statement on the condition of the home when inspected and the final statement on what was included and/or excluded in the inspection. 

INSPECTION CATEGORIES:

1) Maintenance Item - These are repairs that, in the opinion of the inspector, are regular maintenance items typical for all homes.  Repair to these items is not urgent, but should be performed in the near future.

2) Repair Recommendation - The item, component or unit was inspected/tested, and is not functioning as intended.   Repair or replacement is needed by a qualified specialist. 

3) Further Evaluation Recommended- The item, component or unit need to be further evaluated by a professional and was not fully inspected or has concerns that need further review by a specialist.

SCOPE AND TERMS OF INSPECTION:
This confidential report is furnished for the use of the client only. It is not intended to be relied upon for any purpose by any other party not named on the report and Inspection Agreement. This inspection was performed in accordance with and under the terms of a Home Inspection Agreement. The agreement was signed and agreed upon before the preparation of this report and a signed copy of the agreement is available upon request. Scott Home Inspection conducts all inspections according to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. The complete standards can be reviewed at the following location; www.scotthomeinspection.com/ASHI_standards-ethics.pdf 

LIMITATIONS:
Limitations exist in any home inspection. The inspector cannot see behind walls or behind hidden areas in the home. The belongings of the current occupant of the home are not moved to view areas underneath or behind such belongings. Additionally, the inspection is not a test for hazardous materials, such as asbestos, lead paint, mold, or other environmental hazards.  If the inspector observes materials which inspector believes may contain hazardous materials, the Inspector will recommend further testing and evaluation. Any comments, notes or recommendations made by the inspector are informational only, and Client understands that only proper hazardous testing can determine whether any actual hazardous materials are present. The inspector is also not qualified to detect the presence of Chinese Drywall.  Nothing herein shall be construed so as to require the inspector to observe or to warn Client as to potential hazardous materials.  Any investigation concerning the existence or possible existence of potentially hazardous materials in any form is beyond the scope of the inspection services offered by Scott Home Inspection.  

READING YOUR INSPECTION REPORT
The inspection report from Scott Home Inspection is cloud based allowing for sharing of the report and easy navigation through sections.  Click to expand the image below to give you tips and help on reading and navigating through this report.

The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:

The following items were Inspected and Observed, with any Recommended Actions noted:

A visual inspection of the exterior surfaces was performed around the home to include the exterior surface material, soffit/fascia surfaces, doors and windows, and other exterior surface areas.

• The exterior wall covering, trim, and flashing were visually inspected for concerns related to installation, paint/stain condition, damage and general maintenance issues.
• The entry doors to the home were tested and inspected by operating the doors, checking the lock and latch, inspecting the weather-stripping, inspecting any screens present and checking for any physical damage.
• The exterior of the windows were visually inspected for signs of cracked glass, damaged screens, caulking around edges and seams, paint or finish deterioration, and general concerns.
• The driveway and exterior concrete surfaces around the home were walked and inspected for surface deterioration, trip hazards, poor slope or drainage and any general areas of concern.
• The surface grading and drainage was inspected to determine if areas exist that will adversely affect the home.

The outside of the home should be routinely checked.  Exteriors need regular maintenance to stay sealed against the weather.  There can be hidden damage when the exterior is not sealed or is poorly finished, damaged or decayed.  Heavy vegetation should be kept trimmed since it can cause or hide damage.

The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:

The following items were Inspected and Observed, with any Recommended Actions noted:

The foundation, basement, and crawlspace components were inspected where present and accessible, including the following items:

• The visible portions of the foundation wall of the home where not covered by insulation or finishing.
• The insulation type and levels present where visible.
• The floor structure, wall structure, beams and posts where visible.

Limitations can exist on any foundation inspection since much of the structural components can be hidden or buried, or covered with insulation or a finished area.  We do our best to observe all visible areas and look for any sign of structural concerns.  We are not structural engineers, and therefore, if we do see areas of concern we may recommend further evaluation by an engineer to assess the area of concern.

The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:

The following items were Inspected and Observed, with any Recommended Actions noted:

The roof system, gutters-downspouts, attic, and attic ventilation were inspected where components were fully accessible.   

• The roofing material was inspected for concerns with wear and age, potential hail damage or other damage, and any flashing or roof penetration concerns.
• Gutters and downspouts were inspected to ensure proper drainage away from the home and foundation.
• Metal flue pipes and chimneys were visually inspected for physical condition and flashing concerns.
• The attic was inspected to determine if moisture concerns are present, assess insulation concerns, ventilation adequacy, and review any visible structural issues.

The roof inspection is not intended to predict how long the roof will last or if it will leak, and is not a warranty. All roofs should be inspected annually in order to detect and address concerns to ensure the roof will perform for the typical life span.  Expect to make minor repairs to any roof.

The below ground drain lines for downspouts do not appear to drain above grade, and it is unable to determined if drains will function properly.  As a maintenance item, you should monitor these areas, and periodically clean out these lines with a drain-snake, to keep drainage flowing away from the foundation of the home.

The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:

The following items were Inspected and Observed, with any Recommended Actions noted:

The plumbing system and components in the home were tested and inspected, including the following items:

• Determining the location of the main water and gas shut off valves if visible, and inspecting for any visual concerns.
• General visual inspection of exposed supply and drain piping material.
• Testing of all fixtures at sinks, showers and tubs, and visually inspecting for leaks and condition.
• Testing of toilets for proper operation, general condition and properly secured.
• Inspection of the hot water system, age, and general condition.

The main fuel shut-off is at the gas meter outside.  No visible concerns or odor of gas leaks were noted at this time.  Note that we do not operate gas valves.

The main water shut-off was inspected, with no concerns noted.  This can be used to turn all of the water off to the home in the event of a plumbing emergency or when plumbing repairs are needed.

The water pressure was measured at an outside hose-bib and was in the normal expected range of 35-80 psi. This static measurement is what was measured on the day of the inspection, but this water pressure can vary at different times of the day depending on the pressure that is being delivered by the municipal water supplier.

A thermometer was used to test the temperature of the hot water at a faucet in the home. This temperature was within the normally acceptable ranged of 120 to 130 degrees F.  Temperatures over 130 F can present a scalding hazard.  At the water heater, the temperature indicator dial was checked to verify that it corresponded with the temperature measured out of the tested faucet.

The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:

The following items were Inspected and Observed, with any Recommended Actions noted:

The electrical system and components in the home were inspected to include the following:

• The services entrance wiring and main electrical disconnect, including noting the location of the main shut off.
• Inspection of the main electrical panel and wiring.
• Testing a representative number of switches and outlets throughout the home.
• Review of GFCI outlets and if present in proper locations for safety.
• Inspection of smoke detectors and CO detectors in the home to ensure enough are present and in the proper recommended locations.

We do our best to test items that operate via a remote control, when the remote is readily accessible.  Low voltage wiring systems, built-in audio systems, and any alarm systems present are outside the scope of a home inspection and are not tested.

The main electrical service disconnect can be used to shut off all power to the home in the event of an electrical emergency or when electrical repairs are needed.

There is also a PV service disconnect. Both this and the main disconnect must be shut off in order to shut off all power to the home.

The interior of the main panel was inspected, with no concerns noted at this time.

Smoke detectors are present in the home, located on each floor and within each bedroom, as recommended.  Monthly testing of the units is recommended, along with annual battery replacement.  Additionally, replacement of the units is recommended once older than 10 years of age, according to the National Fire Protection Association.  This helpful resource has important tips related to smoke alarm safety.

CO detectors are currently present in the proper locations. 

Colorado state law requires that all homes being purchased are required to have Carbon Monoxide Alarms installed by the seller.  This is a requirement for homes that have a fuel-fired heating system or appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage.  The CO Alarm(s) must be installed within 15 feet of the entrance to each sleeping room.  This can be in a hallway outside bedrooms.  If bedrooms are located on more than one level, then a separate CO alarm must be installed outside each bedroom area on each level.  This inspection includes a review of the presence of CO alarms, and includes pressing the 'test' button to verify operation.

The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:

The following items were Inspected and Observed, with any Recommended Actions noted:

The heating system for the home was visually inspected and tested including the following:

• Turning on the system at the operating control and ensuring the system operated and heat was delivered from the system.
• Opening readily accessible panels to visually inspect the system.
• Inspecting the venting system, flues and chimneys, where present.

Regular service of the HVAC system is important for efficient operation and to achieve maximum life from equipment; equipment can fail at any time without warning; most manufacturers recommend annual service.

The disposable filter for the HVAC system is clean.  Regular furnace filter replacement is recommended every 3 months during the heating and cooling season.

The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:

The following items were Inspected and Observed, with any Recommended Actions noted:

The cooling system for the home was visually inspected and tested, with testing including the following:

• Turning on the system at the operating control and ensuring the system operated and cool air was delivered from the system.
• Opening readily accessible panels to visually inspect the system.
• Inspecting the exterior compressor and coil, where present.

Regular service of the HVAC system is important for efficient operation and to achieve maximum life from equipment; equipment can fail at any time without warning; most manufacturers recommend annual service.

The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:

The following items were Inspected and Observed, with any Recommended Actions noted:

An inspection of the interior surfaces was performed throughout the home to include visually inspecting the ceilings, walls, floors, doors and windows of each room.  Every effort is made to inspect all interior areas but we can't move occupant furniture or belongings. 

• Doors were operated and tested for proper operation including whether the door rubs, latches engage, and the general condition of doors.
• Windows were tested and operated on a representative number, including looking for cracked glass, broken thermal seals, and latch/lock operation.  While we operate window blinds in order to access the windows to operate and inspect them, the overall condition of window coverings and treatments is outside the scope of a home inspection. 
• Countertops and a representative number of cabinets were inspected and tested.  
• Steps and stair railings were inspected for any safety concerns.  
• Exhaust fans were turned on to verify they operate with normal switch control. 

The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:

The following items were Inspected and Observed, with any Recommended Actions noted:

The appliances are all turned on and run, to ensure that they operate.  The testing done is general in nature, and not exhaustive.  We do not verify appliance thermostats including their calibration, adequacy of heating elements, self cleaning oven cycles, indicator lights, door seals, timers, clocks, timed features, ice-maker production, and other specialized features of the appliances. Note that if the occupant has dishes in the dishwasher or clothes in the washer or dryer, we do not operate them and will note the limitation in our ability to completely inspect and test these units.

The following photos document the general condition of kitchen and appliances if applicable. These photos reflect areas that have no existing concerns at this time. Areas with a specific concern or defect are noted separately, referencing the specific issue and area of concern.

A limited visual inspection was performed on the range and/or cook top and oven, to verify that the unit(s) is operating.  The door seals are inspected, burners checked, and oven turned on to verify heat.  No concerns were noted with this limited functional test. Some minor cosmetic damage and evidence of wear was noted at the unit.

The food waste disposer was turned on and tested, and was inspected for leaks. No concerns were noted with this limited functional test.

A limited visual inspection was performed on the refrigerator(s), to verify operating condition and that the inside temperatures are cool/cold, indicating operation.  The door seals are inspected, and the ice maker and/or water dispenser checked, when present, for any leaks or concerns.   This is a limited inspection and is not a complete evaluation of the refrigerator(s).

The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:

The following items were Inspected and Observed, with any Recommended Actions noted:

The garage was inspected to include the interior surfaces, garage doors, electrical systems present, and overall general condition including:

• Garage ceiling, walls, floors, doors, and windows including the door to the house for fire safety.
• The main garage doors were tested and operated, including testing any automatic openers.
• Electrical outlets and components are inspected and tested.

The garage door is the largest moving object in the home.  It can cause severe injury if it malfunctions, and should be checked monthly.  As a part of our inspection process, we will test the auto-reverse sensors for the garage door opener.  We do not test the down pressure setting on the door to determine if the door will reverse when met with resistance, as this can cause damage to the door if the down pressure setting is not properly set.  However, this is a safety feature that should also be checked periodically.  It is recommended that you test the down pressure setting on the garage door upon move-in, following the door opener manufacturer's specific testing procedure.

The following photos document the general condition of the garage if applicable. These photos reflect areas that have no existing concerns at this time. Areas with a specific concern or defect are noted separately, referencing the specific issue and area of concern.

The garage door(s) reverse(s) when the photo-sensor beam is broken.  This is a safety check performed, to test the safety feature of the door opener(s).

Testing of lawn sprinkler systems is outside the scope of a standard home inspection.  As a courtesy, we run and test sprinkler systems, when possible, and if the system is currently turned on and operational.  The testing is minor and limited in nature, and consists of running the system one zone at a time, to look for any broken heads, or obvious leaks in the system, and general operation and performance issues.  The integrity of the buried lines cannot be assessed or determined.  Annual maintenance is recommended, and proper winterization of the system is recommended each fall.

The sprinkler main shut off valve was inspected, and is off at this time, with no visible concerns noted.

The purpose of the initial short-term radon measurement is to determine in a two to seven day period if a dwelling contains high concentrations of radon gas. If the average of the measured radon level is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, the EPA recommends further action be taken.

Protocols for Deployment of Radon Detectors:

The EPA stipulates that "closed house conditions" must be maintained during short-term radon measurements. If the measurement period is less than four days, "closed house conditions" must be initiated 12 hours prior to starting the test. The EPA defines "closed house conditions" as:

- All windows must be kept closed and doors opened only long enough to go in and out.
- Exhaust fans, window air conditioners, or whole-house fans should not be operated.
- Fireplaces (unless they are the primary heat source) must not be used and the dampers must be closed.
- Permanent radon mitigation systems should be functioning (on) for at least 24 hours prior to and during the measurement period. In addition, measurements of less than 4 days should not be conducted during times of severe weather.

To make a short-term measurement, the radon test device was placed in the lowest lived-in area of the house, i.e., the lowest area, which residents now use or which could be readily adapted for use. In many houses this lowest lived-in area is the basement, if it is lived-in or if it can be converted into living space without major modification. The exact location of the test devices will be described below in the report details.

The radon test device will be located at least 20 inches above the floor, not closer than 12 inches to the ceiling; and away from the exterior walls, doors and windows. Bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, cellars, garages, or crawl spaces are not suitable measurement locations. In addition, the detector should not be touched, moved, or manipulated in any way as to interfere with its performance. Tamper indicating controls have been installed, and the test results may be ruled invalid if closed-house conditions were not maintained or the detectors were disturbed during the testing period.

We are required to explain these closed-house conditions to a responsible occupant of the house to be tested or their designated representative prior to initiating a short-term screening test. A letter describing these test conditions was left for the occupant of the home.

You have authorized Scott Home Inspection, LLC to perform Radon Testing & Measurement services at the report inspection address. It is understood that the results of the test(s) will reflect radon levels in the Property during the time and duration of the test only, and that radon levels may change in the future due to natural causes. It is also understood that the accuracy of the results depend upon "closed house conditions" being maintained during the test(s). Scott Home Inspection, LLC shall not be held responsible for damages: (a) caused by or related to radon in the home, (b) related to differences between radon levels determined in other tests performed in the Property and the tests authorized by this agreement, or (c) related to health problems which might have been aggravated or caused by radon.

An Energy-Check was performed as part of our Inspection Services, to help understand the basic energy performance of the home you are buying. Included in this check is a review of Insulation levels, Air-Leakage concerns, Window performance, Heating-Cooling system efficiency, Water-Heating efficiency, and Lighting-Appliance recommendations.  The recommendations included will help to improve the long-term performance of the home.  Also, after move-in, consider having us conduct Blower Door Testing for air-leakage quantification, Duct Leakage Testing to confirm the exact leakage rate from the ducts, and further Infra-Red Scanning services.

Your water heater is currently in good condition, and appears to be operating properly.  However, other options exist for efficiently heating water in your home.  If you consider replacing your water heater, this article provides a good overview of options available.

Photo-Voltaic Solar Panels are present on the home. PV systems represent the best opportunity to offset your electric use and consumption, and are an excellent means of reducing your net energy use.  For additional information on this technology visit this useful link.

Infra-red (IR) scanning was performed on the home, as a separate add-on service to the home inspection.  The intention of the IR scans is to observe issues that may not be detectable with standard visual inspection. Infra-red technology is not without limitations and is not perfect. The images presented need to be interpreted, and often further investigation is needed to verify the findings. The technology does not see through walls, but merely displays the surface temperature of the area being scanned. However, wet areas are usually colder, insulation gaps are colder or warmer, and electric concerns tend to be warmer. As a tool available to a home inspector, infra-red technology provides another unique way to inspect a home. When combined with the experience of home systems and building science, and the knowledge of how to interpret the images being displayed, IR scanning can aid the home inspector in finding potentially concerns not visible to the naked-eye.

A sewer scope inspection is a video camera inspection to inspect the main sewer line from the house to the street or septic tank for the property.  The line is accessed through an access point in the home, which could include a basement/crawlspace clean out, a toilet drain line, or a roof vent.  The inspector will determine the best access point, and the report will outline where the line was entered.  The camera inspection does not scope every drain line in the home or all the drain lines running underneath the basement slab, for example.  The intent is to inspect the line that runs from the house to the final service point, and to inspect this buried line for defects.  The results of the inspection are outlined below.

The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:

The following items were Inspected and Observed, with any Recommended Actions noted:

The material of the sewer line changes type at 11 ft from cast iron to clay.

A video of your sewer line has been uploaded for viewing and reference.  Access your video by visiting the following link: https://youtu.be/lI0K8Y1M_Bg

The approximate location of the area of concern was determined using specialized locating equipment.  The area was marked for future reference and for assistance in repair quotations.  It is strongly recommended that this location be verified prior to excavating, as locating equipment can be affected by various factors, such as power lines, buried electrical lines and other items of interference, making the exact location difficult to determine.

For the purposes of this Pest Inspection, wood destroying organisms include: termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees, and wood boring beetles. Pests include mice, rats, squirrels, raccoons, birds, bats, and non wood destroying insects such as wasps, spiders, roaches, and common ants and flies. This Pest Inspection does not include inspecting for mold, mildew, or other non-insect wood destroying organisms. 

The inspector will access and inspect all readily accessible areas where wood destroying organisms or pests may be a concern, and will document any evidence of wood destroying organisms and pests as well as conditions that may be conducive to infestation.  We are unable to inspect in areas that would required the dismantling or removal of moldings, floor coverings, wall coverings, siding, fixed ceilings, insulation, furniture, appliances, and/or personal possessions.  We cannot inspect in areas that are obstructed or inaccessible on the date of inspection. Significant inaccessible areas will be noted in the "Limitations and Inaccessible Areas" section of this report. Crawl spaces, attics, and other areas may be deemed inaccessible if the opening to the area is not large enough to provide access for the inspector. Portions of the structure such as crawl spaces and attics may also be deemed inaccessible if there is less than 24 inches of clearance, or if unsafe conditions exist.

The areas of the home inspected for concerns included a review of the exterior, basement/crawlspace areas, attic areas where readily accessible, garage areas, and a general interior review. Specific areas of concern are noted below.

During a general home inspection of a house, we typically rely on what we can visually see and observe.  And while we can often see signs of moisture damage or mold, we cant know what amount of mold may be present in the air when no visual indication of concerns are present.  Performing mold air sample testing is a very effective method of determining the mold spore counts present in the air, providing valuable information about potential hidden moisture damage present in a home. Typically mold growth can only occur where water or moisture is present.  Mold spores are everywhere in the air, but do not reach elevated levels that are harmful to people unless elevated moisture levels are present.  Controlling water/moisture is the key to controlling mold growth.  Construction materials provide the food source for mold, but water is the trigger to mold growth.  And if any hidden moisture or water leaks are present that are not readily visible to a home inspector, then mold air sample testing can be an effective way to test the mold spore counts in the air, and alert the inspector and buyer to the need to investigate further if elevated results come back from the lab.

How Mold Air Sample Testing is Performed:

A home inspector will use a pump and sample collection system that will take a sample of the air present in the home.  There are small cartridges that have a tiny slide within them, and when air is pulled at a steady rate by a pump through the opening in the cartridge, samples of the particles in the air stick to the internal slide.  The inspector will run each sample for a designated amount of time and at a designated air flow rate.  This provides consistency in the sample collection.  One sample is taken outside and acts as a control sample to provide a reference for what levels of mold spores are present in the air at this time.  Then indoor samples are taken in common living areas, or in the area of concern.  The location of the sample areas will be identified in this report.

Evaluation of Results:

Once the mold air samples are taken, each cartridge is sealed and the samples are shipped overnight to a lab.  The lab analyzes each cartridge and prepares a report outlining the mold spore types present and the count of mold spore types for each sample.  A written report is prepared showing the breakdown of mold counts per type and is attached to this inspection report as a PDF attachment, once available.  The lab will make a determination on whether the spore counts are within a normal or elevated/problem range. If results have come back in an elevated or problem state, it means the mold spore counts as compared to the outside reference sample are elevated to a point where exposure could represent a concern to occupants.  Based upon the results, further action can be taken to investigate that specific area of the home to try to determine where a moisture or water concern may be present, and recommendations for action are noted within this report.

Note: the lack of elevated mold spore counts does not mean that mold is not present in the home.  Mold may be in hidden locations or behind walls that is not in high enough concentrations that would cause room spore counts to be elevated.

Mold air samples were taken at the time of this inspection.  An outdoor reference was taken, as well as 2 indoor samples. The air samples will help to determine whether or not there are elevated levels of mold spores present in the indoor air. 

The mold air sample lab results show no elevated levels of mold spores present in the house air. Indoor air quality is considered compromised if the individual mold spore count is significantly greater indoors than outdoors. No concerns are noted at this time. See attached lab report for further information.

The quality of the water supplied to your home, whether it be from a public water system or a private well, is an important consideration.  Water quality can affect the health of the occupants from exposure through drinking or washing with the water. Secondarily, the taste and appearance of the water is also a consideration.  Further, water quality can affect the plumbing and fixtures in your home, resulting in scaling or corrosion to pipes and plumbing fixtures. Nearly all water quality concerns that can be identified are treatable.  This Water Quality Test includes testing for the 7 following water quality parameters:

Lead: High exposure to lead is primarily a concern for young children and pregnant women.  High levels of lead in drinking water can result in delays in physical or mental development in infants and children, and for adults it can result in cognitive issues, kidney damage, and increased blood pressure.  Lead can get into drinking water through the use of lead in materials from the utility water supply, lead water supply piping in the home, lead solder on piping, or lead at faucets, fixtures, and fittings in the home.

Copper: In small amounts, copper is necessary in the human diet. However, too much copper can cause adverse health effects, including vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. It has also been linked with liver damage and kidney disease.

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): Total dissolved solids refers to any minerals, salts, metals, and traces of organic compounds that are dissolved in water, which can affect taste, smell, and appearance. This test is used as an indicator to determine the general drinking quality of the water.

Free Chlorine:  The level of free or residual chlorine present in drinking water helps to determine that a sufficient amount of chlorine to prevent bacteria growth and viruses was added to the water supply initially. It also indicates that the water is protected from recontamination during storage. The level of free chlorine in drinking water is important in determining the potability of the water.

Hardness: The hardness of water can affect the ability to use the water for washing.  Laundry can come out stiff, and dishes/glassware can show spottiness from excessive mineral deposits.  When showering or bathing with hard water, it can also result in dry, itchy skin or unmanageable hair. For the house plumbing system, it can result in scale deposits at sinks, tubs, fixtures, and appliances in the home.  A water softener may be recommended to help treat hardness concerns.

pH:  This is a measure of where the water falls on a scale from acidic (low pH) to basic (high pH).  The acidity of water (low ph) can result in increased corrosion to the plumbing pipes and fixtures in your home, while high pH can cause a bitterness of taste and can reduce the effectiveness of the chlorine in the water.

Alkalinity: The alkalinity of water is a measure of its capacity to resist or neutralize acid.  In general, alkalinity in water comes from calcium carbonate (CaC03) that is introduced as the water is leached through soil or rock, or from acid rain or snow.  Alkalinity is an important consideration in the treatment of  water because it influences the cleaning process. Suitability of water for use in irrigation can also be affected if the alkalinity level in the water is higher than the natural level of alkalinity in the soil.  Drinking alkaline water is generally considered safe.  There is no medical evidence that proves that higher alkalinity in water is beneficial to health.

ppm = parts per million

ppb = parts per billion

Measured Level :  <2 ppb - This is BELOW the acceptable limit, and no action is needed.

Measured Level :   .016 ppm - This is BELOW the acceptable limit, and no action is needed.

Measured Level :  58 ppm - This is BELOW the acceptable limit, and no action is needed.

Measured Level :  0.2 ppm - This is WITHIN the recommended range, and no action is needed.

Measured Level :  7.0 pH - This is WITHIN the acceptable range, and no action is needed.

Measured Level :  40 ppm  - This is WITHIN the acceptable range, and no action is needed.