what would u use/how would u measure the amount of nitrates/nitrites in water?

Answer 1

There are test strips that you can purchase, but the are only accurate to about 10 mg/L. The best way is to call the health department. Many of the health departments have in-house labs, but if not, they'll let you know where to test it. The amount of nitrates in your drinking water is very important because nitrates above 10 mg/L can mean health risks. The most immediate health threat is to infants under 6 months of age. The nitrates convert to nitrites in the digestive system and the nitrite replaces oxygen in the blood leading to a condition called methemoglobinemia or "blue baby syndrome".

Answer 2

You can also get testing kits from pet and aquarium stores. You take a small sample of water in a test tube they give you, add drops and the water in the test tube will change colour depending on the level of nitrite/nitrate present. You can then compare the water colour with a sample card, which gives you a general range for your result.