Understanding your results

Your report translates lab data into plain language, comparing each result to a health-based benchmark so you know where you stand.

What’s on the report

• Analyte — what was measured (e.g., Lead, PFOA + PFOS, Nitrate).
• Your result — the measured concentration, in the correct units (µg/L, ng/L, mg/L).
• EPA limit — the benchmark we compare against (see below).
• Status — a plain-language flag: Below limit or Over limit.

What “EPA limit” means

We compare your results to EPA Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) or action levels — the thresholds the EPA uses for public drinking water. “Below limit” means your result is under that benchmark; “over limit” means it’s above it. For some contaminants (like lead) the health goal is actually zero, so any detectable amount is worth attention.

What to do next

If everything is below limits

That’s reassuring. Water can change over time, so many households retest every 1–2 years, after plumbing work, or when moving into a new home.

If something is over a limit

• Don’t panic — confirm. A retest rules out a one-off collection issue.
• Match treatment to the contaminant. Filters are contaminant-specific — look for one certified (e.g., NSF/ANSI) to reduce your analyte. A carbon filter that helps with taste won’t necessarily remove lead or PFAS.
• Consider a professional. For lead, PFAS, or well issues, a licensed water-treatment pro can recommend a system sized to your home.

Have your report open and still unsure? Email support@sacredsamplingsolutions.com.