Water Analysis Ideal

Test your drinking water for heavy metals and other elements

With the Ideal Water Analysis, you can have your drinking water tested in a laboratory for 13 selected metals and other elements. These include lead, copper, nickel, iron and cadmium. The analysis helps identify possible metal contamination, which may originate from household pipes, fittings or certain plumbing materials.

The test provides information about the concentrations of the selected elements in your water sample. This allows you to identify potential abnormalities and arrange further investigations if necessary.

Why is testing drinking water for heavy metals useful?

In Switzerland, drinking water is generally supplied in very good quality. However, older 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.

Laboratory testing can help identify possible contamination from lead, copper, nickel and other elements. Elevated iron concentrations may also indicate corrosion or other influences and can be associated with discolouration or deposits in the water.

When is the Ideal Water Analysis recommended?

• If your property has older water pipes or plumbing installations
• If you want to investigate possible contamination from lead, copper, nickel or other metals
• If water regularly remains in the pipes for extended periods
• If your tap water appears rusty or unusually discoloured
• If you want to know the concentrations of selected metals in your drinking water
• If you want to investigate possible effects of your household plumbing on water quality

What does the Ideal Water Analysis examine?

The Ideal Water Analysis includes 13 selected elements. The laboratory report provides measured concentrations or results below the respective limit of quantification. Where applicable legal maximum levels or requirements exist, the results can be compared with Swiss drinking water regulations.

These 13 parameters are examined

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

Some elements occur naturally in water. Others may also enter drinking water from pipes, fittings or other materials. However, a single measurement does not always allow the exact source of an element to be determined.

Frequently asked questions about the Ideal Water Analysis

Which heavy metals are tested with the Ideal Water Analysis?

The analysis includes lead, cadmium, chromium, copper and nickel, among other metals and elements. In total, the 13 parameters listed above are examined.

How do metals from water pipes enter drinking water?

Certain pipes, fittings and connectors can release metals into the water. This depends on factors such as the materials used, the composition of the water and the contact time. Longer periods of stagnation can increase the concentrations of some metals.

Can I detect heavy metals in drinking water by taste or colour?

Not reliably. Elevated iron concentrations, for example, may be associated with rusty discolouration. Other metals, such as lead, may not be noticeable by the taste, smell or appearance of the water, even at elevated concentrations. Laboratory testing enables targeted examination.

Is the Ideal Water Analysis suitable for older buildings?

Yes. Testing drinking water for selected metals can be particularly useful in buildings with older plumbing installations. The results may provide indications of possible influences from pipes and fittings. However, the analysis does not replace a technical inspection of the plumbing system.

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

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

Are bacteria or water hardness also tested?

No. The Ideal Water Analysis examines only the 13 listed elements. Bacteria, water hardness, nitrate, nitrite and other chemical parameters are not included. An extended water analysis is required for these parameters.

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 offers a broader range of chemical parameters. The most suitable analysis depends on which characteristics or potential contaminants of your drinking water you want to investigate.

Have your drinking water tested for selected metals

With the Ideal Water Analysis, you receive a laboratory report covering 13 selected metals and other elements in your water sample. The test can help identify possible metal contamination and provide indications of influences from your household plumbing.

Important note: The Ideal Water Analysis examines only the 13 listed elements. Water hardness measurement and testing for bacteria, PFAS or pesticides are not included. The results apply to the submitted water sample and do not constitute a complete assessment of drinking water quality.