Well Water in Currituck County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Currituck County contains arsenic, chloride, iron, manganese, and sulfate at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Several of these contaminants--particularly arsenic and chloride--are present at concerning concentrations that well owners need to address.

These contaminants come from the sand, clay, and gravel layers that make up the coastal plain aquifer system beneath the county. Saltwater from the ocean has moved into these layers over time, bringing chloride inland, while naturally occurring arsenic and metals like iron and manganese are released into the water as it moves through the sediment.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by high levels of calcium and magnesium dissolved from the rock and sediment. Most wells in Currituck County will show this very hard water character, along with elevated iron and sodium that come from the minerals in the coastal plain sediment.

Wells in Currituck County commonly have arsenic, chloride, iron, manganese, and sulfate at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Arsenic is a serious concern because it can damage your organs and increase cancer risk over time, even at levels you cannot see or taste. Iron and manganese can cause nervous system problems in infants and children. Chloride and sulfate at high levels can affect people with certain health conditions.

The extremely hard water in county wells causes stubborn scale buildup on faucets, shower heads, and inside pipes. You will likely see rust stains from iron on sinks, toilets, and laundry. Hard water shortens the lifespan of water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines. The water may taste salty or bitter from high mineral content.

We recommend testing your well with a comprehensive panel to find out exactly what is in your water. Every well is different, and yours could have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what needs to be treated. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars. Treatment options like reverse osmosis systems or ion exchange softeners can address multiple contaminants.