Alexander Ostrovskiy - Water Analysis in London
Water Quality Testing & Analysis Services in London
Welcome to the water quality testing and analysis services of Alexander Ostrovskiy. I am a certified water quality specialist providing comprehensive testing, analysis, and treatment recommendations for residential homes and commercial businesses throughout the greater London area. With over 15 years of experience, state-of-the-art equipment, and a commitment to excellent service, I can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your water is safe and healthy.
- +442074560175
- [email protected]
- Alexander Ostrovskiy
- 614 Finchley Rd, London NW11 7RX, United Kingdom
The Importance of Professional Water Testing
While municipal water supplies in London are generally safe, a variety of factors can still impact the quality and safety of the water coming out of your taps:
– Contaminants can enter the water through breaks or leaks in pipes, especially in older buildings
– Plumbing materials like lead, copper, or iron can leach into water as pipes corrode over time
– Water that stagnates in pipes can foster bacteria growth
– Groundwater may become contaminated from industrial runoff, pesticides, or sewage
– Some emerging contaminants are not yet regulated or routinely tested for by public utilities
Any of these issues can potentially expose you to hazardous chemicals, heavy metals, microbes, or other pollutants that pose health risks. And some contaminants, while not necessarily dangerous, can still cause unpleasant odors, tastes, or staining. That’s why it’s so important to have your water professionally tested, especially if:
– You have an older home or building with original plumbing
– You notice any change in the color, cloudiness, taste, or smell of your water
– You experience frequent plumbing leaks, clogs, or other issues
– There is construction or excavation work occurring near your property
– You use well water or another private water supply
As your local water quality expert, I provide the advanced testing and knowledgeable analysis you need to identify any problems and keep your water clean, clear, and contaminant-free. I am certified by the United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards for the competence of testing laboratories. With my help, you can have complete confidence in the safety and quality of your home or business’s water.
Comprehensive Testing for Contaminants and Quality
Using cutting-edge equipment and methods, I am able to accurately test water for a complete range of potential contaminants and quality issues:
Microbiological – I test for the presence of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can cause serious gastrointestinal illness and infections. This includes coliforms, E. coli, hepatitis A, giardia, cryptosporidium, and more.
Chemical – From industrial pollutants to pesticides to disinfection byproducts, I analyze water samples for over 100 different chemical contaminants, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic. I test for benzene, chloroform, trichloroethylene, PCBs, chlorine, nitrates/nitrites, and numerous others.
Heavy Metals – Even at low levels, heavy metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium can be hazardous to your health if consumed over time. I use atomic absorption spectroscopy and other advanced techniques to detect even trace amounts of these dangerous metals.
Radiological – While not common, radiological contaminants like uranium, thorium, and plutonium can sometimes occur in water. I use radiochemistry analysis to test for radioactive isotopes and ensure the radiological safety of your water.
Hardness and Mineral Content – I measure the levels of calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese and other minerals in your water. Imbalanced or excessive mineral content can cause problems like pipe corrosion, limescale buildup, staining, or unpleasant odors and tastes.
pH and Corrosivity – Water that is too acidic or alkaline can corrode pipes and fixtures, leaching metals and contaminants into the water supply. I conduct pH testing to assess the acid-base balance and corrosivity of your water.
Turbidity and Particulates – Turbidity is the measure of suspended particles in water that can make it cloudy or murky. High turbidity can indicate contamination issues and also interfere with disinfection treatments. I test for turbidity and analyze the composition of any particulate matter.
Regardless of where your water comes from, how old your building is, or what problems you suspect, I will conduct a thorough battery of tests to precisely analyze the contents and quality of your water. I strictly follow all official standard methods, including those from the UK Environment Agency’s Monitoring Certification Scheme (MCERTS) and The Microbiology of Drinking Water (2002). My state-of-the-art laboratory equipment includes:
– Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) for heavy metal analysis
– Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for volatile organic compound (VOC) detection
– High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for chemical analysis
– UV-VIS spectrophotometry for nitrates, phosphates, chlorine and more
– Membrane filtration and enzyme substrate methods for microbiological testing
– Turbidimeters and laser diffraction particle size analyzers for turbidity and particulates
With these powerful analytical tools and my extensive water chemistry expertise, no well or tap water contaminant will go undetected. You can trust my testing to deliver the most accurate and reliable results regarding the safety and quality of your water.
Detailed Reports and Recommendations
My water analysis services go beyond just testing. I provide every client with an extensive printed report detailing the findings and results of the water quality tests conducted on their property. Your personalized report will include:
– Testing methods, equipment, and any relevant analytical methods used
– Complete rundown of specific contaminants and parameters tested
– Quantified measurements of any contaminants detected
– Comparison of contaminant levels to UK and EU water quality standards and health guidelines
– Overall assessment of water quality and any areas of concern
– Specific recommendations for any water treatment, plumbing repairs, or other remedial actions needed
I review the results in depth to determine if the levels of any contaminants found exceed the allowable limits set by the UK and EU, including the European Drinking Water Directive and the UK Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations. I base my water quality standards and health risk assessments on official guidelines from the UK Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI), WHO, and other scientific authorities.
More importantly, I don’t just hand you lab results and leave you to decipher their meaning. I fully explain what the measurements indicate about the condition of your pipes and water supply. And if any issues are found, I provide customized step-by-step recommendations for how to treat and resolve them.
Whether you need a whole-house filtration system, a reverse osmosis setup, faucet filters, pipe repairs, or anything else, I will recommend the most effective solutions to restore the safety and quality of your water. I can advise you on the best treatment systems and hook you up with qualified plumbers and installers to implement them properly.
With my detailed reports and knowledgeable guidance, you will have all the information and expert advice you need to protect your water and the health of your family or customers. I make it simple to understand the state of your water and take any needed corrective actions to get it back up to standard.
Responsive Service and Transparent Pricing
I know that when you have concerns about water quality, you don’t want to wait long for answers. That’s why I pride myself on prompt, responsive service that delivers the results you need quickly. When you contact me to request water testing, I will:
– Get back to you within 24 hours to discuss your situation and needs
– Arrange sample collection and testing at your earliest convenience, often within 1-2 days
– Rush process your samples and analysis so you have results as soon as possible, usually within a week
– Immediately notify you if any serious health hazard is detected
– Schedule an in-person or phone consultation to fully explain your report and recommendations
– Be available for any follow-up questions or concerns
I strive to make the entire testing and analysis process as simple, convenient and worry-free for you as possible. I’m always just a phone call away if you need additional information or advice regarding your water.
I also believe in full transparency when it comes to pricing. I offer straightforward, upfront flat-rate pricing for all my water testing and analysis services – no hidden charges or surprise fees. My rates are:
Basic Water Quality Analysis Package: £299
– Microbiological testing (Total Coliforms, E. coli, etc.)
– pH, TDS, turbidity
– Copper and lead
Advanced Water Quality Analysis Package: £499
– Everything in Basic package
– Detailed heavy metals (mercury, arsenic, etc.)
– Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
– Nitrates/Nitrites and other inorganic chemicals
Comprehensive Water Quality Analysis Package: £799
– Everything in Basic and Advanced packages
– Pesticides, herbicides, PCBs
– Radiological analysis
– Chlorine disinfection byproducts (THMs, HAAs)
Additional tests like legionella or specific contaminant groups can be added on an a la carte basis – just ask for a quote. Discounted pricing is available for customers who require regular monitoring and repeat testing services.
Contact Information and Service Area
If you have any concerns about the quality of your home or business’s water, don’t hesitate to contact me for the professional testing and analysis you need. You can reach me by:
Phone: +442074560175
Email: [email protected]
Contact Form: Fill out the form on this page and I’ll reply promptly
My service area covers all of London and the surrounding areas, including:
– Greater London
– Kingston upon Thames
– Croydon
– Bromley
– Epping Forest
– Windsor and Maidenhead
– Surrey
– Hertfordshire
– Berkshire
– Buckinghamshire
– Essex
I look forward to helping you ensure your water is safe, clean, and contaminant-free. Contact me today to discuss your needs and schedule your comprehensive water quality analysis. Your health and peace of mind are my highest priority.
About Alexander Ostrovskiy
I am an independent water quality specialist with over 15 years of experience in water testing, analysis, and treatment for residential, commercial and industrial clients across London. I hold a Masters in Environmental Chemistry from Imperial College London and am certified under the United Kingdom Accreditation Services to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards for testing laboratories. I am also a member of the Chartered Institute of Water and Environmental Management.
Prior to starting my own water quality testing service, I spent 8 years as a water chemistry analyst for the UK Environment Agency and 5 years as Head of Quality Assurance for a major environmental testing laboratory serving the UK, EU and Middle East. Over my career, I have tested over 10,000 water samples and helped resolve water quality issues for hundreds of clients.
I launched Alexander Ostrovskiy Water Quality Services to provide London homes and businesses with the most cutting-edge contamination testing and water quality expertise available. My mission is to give every client the detailed information and knowledgeable guidance they need to protect their health and ensure their water meets the highest standards of quality and safety. Let me put my skills and experience to work for you.
Health Effects of Common Water Contaminants
Lead
Lead is a toxic heavy metal that can leach into water from old lead pipes, solder, and brass fittings. Even low levels of lead exposure can cause serious health effects, especially in children and pregnant women. Lead harms the nervous system, causing developmental delays, learning difficulties, irritability, fatigue, and behavioral problems in kids. In adults, it can cause high blood pressure, decreased kidney function, and reproductive issues.
Bacteria (E. coli, Total Coliforms)
Bacteria like E. coli and other coliforms are microbiological contaminants that come from sewage, animal waste, or decaying organic matter entering the water supply. Consuming water with these bacteria can cause acute gastrointestinal illness, with symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, nausea, headaches, and fever. Infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised people are at higher risk for severe symptoms and complications.
Nitrates/Nitrites
Nitrates and nitrites are inorganic compounds that can contaminate water from fertilizer runoff, septic tanks, or sewage. The main health concern with nitrates is infant methemoglobinemia or “blue baby syndrome.” Nitrates reduce the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, which can be fatal for infants. Some studies also link nitrates to increased risk of cancers, thyroid issues, and reproductive problems.
Arsenic
Arsenic is a highly toxic metalloid that can contaminate groundwater from natural rock formations or industrial pollution. Long-term exposure to arsenic, even at low levels, significantly increases the risk of various cancers, including skin, lung, bladder, and kidney cancers. Non-cancer effects include skin lesions, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cognitive deficits, and harm to fetal development during pregnancy.
Chlorine Byproducts (THMs, HAAs)
Disinfection of water with chlorine can produce harmful byproducts like trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs) if organic matter in the water isn’t properly filtered out first. Studies link these chemicals to increased risk of bladder, colon, and rectal cancers. They may also be associated with reproductive problems like miscarriage, birth defects, and infertility. Other health effects can include liver, kidney and central nervous system issues.
Pesticides and Herbicides
Chemical pesticides and herbicides used in agriculture and landscaping can infiltrate water sources and pose health risks if consumed, even at trace levels. Different products have various toxic effects, but general health concerns include increased cancer risk, reproductive and endocrine disruption, liver and kidney damage, and neurological effects. Exposure during pregnancy is particularly concerning for fetal development.
These are just some of the more common waterborne contaminants and their potential health consequences. The reality is that there are numerous chemical, biological, and radiological pollutants that can contaminate water and harm human health in both acute and chronic ways. The best way to protect yourself is to have your water regularly tested so you can catch any problems and take steps to treat and decontaminate your water if needed. I’m here to provide the comprehensive testing and expert guidance you need to keep your water safe.