Well Water in Plumas County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Plumas County contains radon, arsenic, and chloride. Radon is the main health concern here, with levels exceeding EPA standards, while arsenic and chloride are detected but at lower levels.

Radon comes from the basaltic rock beneath the county. This volcanic rock naturally breaks down over time and releases radon gas into the groundwater. Arsenic and chloride also occur naturally in this rock type and are released slowly as water moves through it.

Groundwater in this county is moderately hard, driven by calcium and magnesium dissolved from the basaltic rock below. The rock's composition releases these minerals steadily into water as it flows underground. Moderate hardness appears to be common across wells throughout the county.

Wells in Plumas County show elevated radon, which is a radioactive gas that can build up in homes and increase the risk of lung cancer over time. Radon enters through cracks and openings in foundations and can accumulate in basements and lower levels. Testing for radon is an important step for families who spend time in these areas of their homes.

The mineral content in county wells is generally moderate and should not cause major problems for most households. Water hardness is at a moderate level, which means you might see some scale buildup on faucets or inside pipes, and soap may not lather as easily as you would like. Most people in this area do not experience serious staining or odor issues from their water.

We recommend testing your well for radon and other contaminants to find out what is actually in your water, since every well is different and yours could have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. A basic radon test costs around fifty to one hundred dollars, while a more comprehensive panel that checks metals and minerals runs two hundred to four hundred dollars. Radon can be treated with ventilation systems that push the gas out of your home before it accumulates indoors.