Water Testing

@tconz That's a good question. In another aspect of my life, one of my tasks is helping people to understand chemical analysis reports. I find this article helpful in explaining how colony counts are done:
http://microbiologynetwork.com/counting-colonies.asp
What is the bottom line? M. chimaera was detected in your water - at the lowest measurable level. I don't know if this is a level of concern as far as danger of infection. It is helpful to know there are no other NTM detected. One way to limit/eliminate NTM in your water is to turn your water heater to 135F or hotter.

I see that you are also on ntminfo.org. Perhaps you can address Dr Joe Falkinham there and ask for his input?
Sue

I will certainly ask Dr. Falkinham as well. Thank you!

May I know which company did you use and how to get the water tested?

I used SimpleLab and it takes almost a month to get results. It was worth it for peace of mind.

Great to learn about water testing. I live in a condo complex so raising heater temp is probably not possible. But...I am wondering if there is a good shower/filter for bacteria, chloride. I don't know if this is a ridiculous question but I thought I'd ask.

There are very fine filters that can be places on individual showers or taps to keep mycobacteria from getting through. The downside is that they clog very easily from sediment in water or pipes. There are also showerhead which can be opened and cleaned/dried out.
I don't use them, so cannot make a recommendation, but perhaps someone else here can offer more info.
What I do use are "rainfall" showerhead that produce very large droplets, and therefore produce less inhalable mist.
Sue

Sue, where do you get them? I can’t fine shower heads that produce very large droplets. Cila

Hay, I know Dr. Faulkinham recommends Pall, but you have to buy filters regularly and they aren't cheap either. Here's a link that maybe helpful. https://selfmattersinstitute.wordpress.com/2020/09/25/the-shower-wars/

I don't use them, so not that savvy, but here is a link to one of the shower heads that some members have purchased:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/shower-heads/?pg=5#comment-255508
And for filters, you need to search for ".2 micron filter" These filter very fine particle, including mycobacteria. They are generally used in combination with either a 2 micron or 5 micron prefilter. The you choose faucet end, in-line or whole house systems. The filters are spendy & the cartridges need to be replaced every 1-3 months depending on your water.

Sue

Thank you. There are many kits. Did you use this kit?
Total Microbiology Water Test?