Water Analysis Opti

Test your drinking water for heavy metals, minerals and water hardness

With the Opti Water Analysis, you can have your drinking water tested in a laboratory for 23 selected chemical parameters, including water hardness. These include heavy metals and other elements such as lead, copper, nickel and cadmium, as well as minerals, nitrate and nitrite.

The analysis provides information about the chemical composition of your water sample. It helps identify possible metal contamination, determine selected water constituents and assess water hardness.

Why is a chemical water analysis useful?

In Switzerland, drinking water is generally supplied in very good quality. However, older household pipes, fittings and certain plumbing materials can release metals into the water. In particular, when water remains in pipes for extended periods, the concentrations of some metals may increase.

The natural composition of water and environmental influences can also affect the concentrations of certain substances. For example, nitrate and nitrite can enter water resources from various sources.

With the Opti Water Analysis, you receive an overview of selected chemical properties of your drinking water. The test also determines water hardness, which is relevant to limescale formation in household appliances.

When is the Opti Water Analysis recommended?

• If you want to have your tap water tested for selected chemical constituents
• If your property has older household pipes or you suspect metal contamination
• If your drinking water shows unusual discolouration or deposits
• If you want to know the concentrations of nitrate and nitrite
• If you use water from a private well or your own spring
• If you want to determine water hardness and selected minerals
• If you use tap water to prepare food or infant formula and would like additional information about its chemical quality

What does the Opti Water Analysis examine?

The Opti Water Analysis covers 23 chemical parameters, including water hardness. The laboratory report provides measured concentrations or results below the respective limits of quantification. Where applicable legal maximum levels or requirements exist, the results can be compared with Swiss drinking water regulations.

Metals and other elements (14)

• Aluminium
• Barium
• Lead
• Boron
• Cadmium
• Chromium
• Iron
• Cobalt
• Copper
• Lithium
• Manganese
• Nickel
• Strontium
• Zinc

Other chemical parameters and water hardness (9)

• Calcium
• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Sodium
• Nitrate
• Nitrite
• Phosphorus / orthophosphate
• Sulphate
• Water hardness

The test combines the determination of selected metals with other chemical water parameters. Water hardness is primarily influenced by dissolved calcium and magnesium compounds.

Frequently asked questions about the Opti Water Analysis

Which heavy metals are tested with the Opti Water Analysis?

The analysis includes lead, cadmium, chromium, copper and nickel, among other metals and elements. In total, 14 metals and other elements are examined, together with nine additional chemical parameters, including water hardness.

What is the difference between the Ideal and Opti Water Analyses?

The Ideal Water Analysis focuses on 13 selected metals and other elements. The Opti Water Analysis extends this range to include manganese, additional chemical parameters such as nitrate and nitrite, and water hardness. It is therefore suitable if you want to learn more about the chemical composition of your drinking water.

Why are nitrate and nitrite tested in drinking water?

Nitrate can enter groundwater and surface water through agricultural activities, among other sources. Nitrite can form through microbial conversion processes. Laboratory testing shows the concentrations of these two substances in your water sample.

What does water hardness tell me about my drinking water?

Water hardness describes the concentration of dissolved calcium and magnesium compounds in water. It influences the formation of limescale deposits in kettles, coffee machines and other household appliances. Hard water is not automatically a health concern.

Can I also test well water or spring water with the Opti Water Analysis?

The analysis can also be useful for water from private wells or springs if you want to determine selected chemical constituents. Additional chemical and microbiological tests may be required for a comprehensive assessment of drinking water quality.

Are bacteria also tested with the Opti Water Analysis?

No. The Opti Water Analysis is a chemical test. Bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), coliform bacteria and Legionella are not included. A separate microbiological water analysis is required for these parameters.

Are PFAS, pesticides or pharmaceutical residues also tested?

No. The Opti Water Analysis covers only the 23 listed parameters. PFAS, pesticides and pharmaceutical residues are not included and require separate, specifically designed water analyses.

Check the chemical quality and hardness of your drinking water

With the Opti Water Analysis, you receive a laboratory report covering 23 selected chemical parameters, including water hardness. The results help you better understand the chemical composition of your water sample and arrange further investigations if unusual values are detected.

Important note: The Opti Water Analysis examines only the listed parameters. Microbiological testing for bacteria and analyses for PFAS, pesticides or pharmaceutical residues are not included. The results apply to the submitted water sample and do not constitute a complete assessment of drinking water quality.