Coliform Bacteria in Lauderdale Lakes Florida Water

Unhealthy Levels of Coliform Bacteria in the Water Supply of Lauderdale Lakes Florida Homes

Coliform bacteria are a group of microorganisms water professionals use as an indicator of sanitary conditions. If a test returns coliform bacteria, it often means untreated water could be entering the system through a damaged well, a backflow or cross-connection, or a breach in the plumbing — issues that don’t always change taste or odor, so lab testing is important. You may also see the phrase total coliforms on lab reports, which refers to the wider coliform family.

Across Broward County — including Lauderdale Lakes homes — standard practice after finding total coliforms is to confirm results with follow-up samples, correct possible entry points, and consider a whole-house barrier to protect every tap. Total coliforms aren’t the same as E. coli, but their presence can indicate conditions favorable to other microbes. Because contamination can fluctuate, many homeowners in the Miami metro area opt to treat water at the point of entry so showers, washers and kitchen taps all receive the same protection.