Well Water in Camden County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Camden County contains arsenic, iron, chloride, and manganese at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concerning concentrations that well owners should address.

The Northern Atlantic Coastal Plain aquifer system here sits in sandy and clay layers mixed with saltwater influence from the coast. Arsenic occurs naturally in these sediments, while iron and manganese leach from the surrounding rock. Chloride enters from old seawater trapped in deeper layers and from proximity to coastal saltwater.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium, and also carries high iron and sodium. The sandy and clay layers that make up the aquifer system release these minerals into water as it flows underground. These characteristics are widespread across wells throughout Camden County.

Wells in Camden County have been found to contain arsenic, chloride, iron, manganese, and sulfate at levels above EPA health standards. Arsenic is a poison that builds up in your body over time and increases the risk of cancer and heart disease. Iron and manganese can harm your nervous system, especially in children. Chloride and sulfate affect kidney and digestive health with long-term exposure.

The very hard water in this county's wells causes serious quality-of-life problems. You will see rust stains on fixtures and laundry, and scale buildup inside pipes and appliances. The water tastes metallic and may smell like rotten eggs. The extreme hardness shortens the lifespan of water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines.

We recommend testing your well right away with a comprehensive panel that checks for metals, minerals, and bacteria--the only way to know what is actually in your water so you can treat it properly. Every well is different, and yours could have higher or lower levels than the county averages. A comprehensive test runs between $200 and $400. Treatment options like activated carbon filters, ion exchange softeners, and aeration systems can address these contaminants.