How to test water quality with Bactiquick
Water quality testing with Bactiquick is simple yet effective, and backed by science.
During testing, a water sample is combined with a cutting-edge chemical solution developed exclusively for Bactiquick. The water testing device then heats the sample to 37°C for 13 minutes. During this time, the device detects Gram-negative bacteria through a colour-change reaction. The colour produced is converted into an electrical signal - the more colour produced, the higher the concentration of bacteria in the water, and the greater the risk to your health.
The results of the water quality test are displayed with a simple traffic light system:
GREEN: Low levels of bacteria – low risk
ORANGE: Moderate concentration of bacteria – medium risk
RED: High concentration of bacteria – high risk
These align with the Environment Agency’s bathing water classifications. Read more about how we classify the risk levels in our FAQs.
How to use a Bactiquick water testing kit
Our Bactiquick water quality testing kit is fast, reliable, and easy to use. Just follow these simple steps for results in 15 minutes:
STEP 1:
Collect a small water sample from the area where you plan to swim, paddle, dip, or surf
STEP 2:
Dilute the sample in the pre-filled mixing tube
STEP 3:
Combine the diluted sample with our patented test formula and insert it into the Bactiquick device
STEP 4:
Wait 15 minutes for clear, easy-to-read results
Step 5:
Connect to the Bactiquick app on your phone and upload your test results via Bluetooth. It’s the perfect way to track every location and every test result.
The science behind our water quality testing
Bactiquick uses a specialised microbiological detection method to identify harmful bacteria in water. Instead of targeting just one species, it measures endotoxin, a molecule found across all Gram-negative bacteria.
Many of these Gram-negative bacteria include pathogens linked to common water-related illnesses, from stomach upsets to respiratory, eye, and urinary infections. With antibiotic resistance on the rise, avoiding unnecessary exposure to these bacteria is becoming increasingly important.
By focusing on endotoxin, Bactiquick detects a broader spectrum of bacteria than most consumer tests – from E. coli to Pseudomonas, Vibrio and Leptospira – all of which can pose health risks.
Validated water quality testing you can trust
Our method has been rigorously tested by independent validators, Campden BRI.
The scientific mechanism behind Bactiquick was developed at the University of Plymouth, and the methodology has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the International Journal of Environmental Research & Public Health, Water and the Journal of Water & Health.
Our flagship testing device, Bacterisk (the industrial version of Bactiquick), is already trusted by water companies across the UK and beyond for its reliability and effectiveness.
