Well Water in Rockingham County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Rockingham County contains radon, chloride, and arsenic. Chloride and radon are high enough to exceed EPA health standards, so well owners should test for these contaminants.

The Early Mesozoic basin rock beneath this county naturally contains radon and can hold saltwater or chloride in deeper layers. Arsenic comes from the rock itself as water flows through. These contaminants are not from human activity but from the geology below.

Groundwater in this county is soft with low iron, sodium, and sulfate levels, so the water has simple mineral character. The basin rock here does not contain high amounts of the minerals that make water hard or create strong tastes. Most wells in Rockingham County show this same soft, lightly mineralized pattern.

Wells in Rockingham County commonly have chloride and radon at levels above EPA health standards. Radon is a radioactive gas that can build up in your home and increase the risk of lung cancer over time. Chloride at high levels can be a health concern for people on sodium-restricted diets or with certain medical conditions.

The good news is that mineral levels in county wells are generally low, so you probably won't see staining, scale buildup, or taste and odor problems from minerals. Your water should feel soft and won't damage appliances like water heaters or dishwashers.

We recommend testing your well to find out what you actually have. Every well is different, and your water could have higher or lower levels than what's common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what needs treatment. A comprehensive panel that checks for metals, minerals, bacteria, and contaminants typically costs between $200 and $400, and radon and chloride removal systems are available if testing shows they're needed in your well.