Well Water in Burke County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Burke County contains radon, manganese, and arsenic. Manganese and radon exceed EPA health standards in this area, which is a concern that well owners should take seriously.

These contaminants come from the rock itself. The crystalline rock that makes up Burke County's aquifers naturally contains manganese and releases radon as the rock breaks down over time. Arsenic also occurs naturally in some of these rocks. Radon enters groundwater as it seeps through cracks and spaces in the rock deep underground.

Groundwater in Burke County is soft and low in minerals like iron, sodium, and sulfate. The crystalline rock here does not contain limestone, so it does not add much calcium or magnesium to the water. Most wells in Burke County show this soft, low-mineral character across the region.

Wells in Burke County commonly have manganese and radon at levels above EPA health standards. Manganese exposure over time can affect the nervous system and cause problems with movement and thinking. Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from rocks underground and increases the risk of lung cancer when you breathe it in over many years. Testing can tell you whether your well has these contaminants at levels of concern.

The good news is that Burke County wells are generally soft with low amounts of iron, sodium, and sulfate. You probably won't see staining, scale buildup, or taste and odor problems from minerals in your water. Your appliances should not wear out faster from mineral buildup.

We recommend getting your well tested to find out what is actually in your water, since every well is different and yours could have higher or lower levels than the county average. A comprehensive test that checks for metals and minerals costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars and will give you a complete picture. Radon can be treated with aeration systems, and manganese can be removed with water filters designed for that purpose.