How often should routine water samples be taken from a source?

Routine water samples should be taken at least quarterly to ensure consistent monitoring and assessment of water quality. This frequency helps detect any changes or contamination in the water source effectively. By sampling every three months, you can identify seasonal variations and potential sources of pollution that may not be evident with less frequent sampling. This regularity is especially important for maintaining compliance with regulatory standards and ensuring that the water meets safety guidelines for public health. Sampling at this interval strikes a balance between being thorough enough to capture trends while still being manageable in terms of resources and time required for analysis.