How often should surface water supplies be sampled for chemical analysis?

Sampling surface water supplies for chemical analysis is essential to ensure water quality and compliance with health and safety standards. Annual sampling is typically recommended because it allows for timely detection of any potential contaminants or changes in water quality that could pose risks to public health or the environment.

By conducting chemical analyses every year, water systems can monitor trends over time and respond effectively to any fluctuations in water quality. This frequency helps ensure that treatment practices remain effective and that the water supplied to consumers is safe and meets regulatory requirements.

The other intervals provided may not provide sufficient oversight to catch potential issues that could arise more frequently than those suggested timelines, therefore risking water quality and safety.