Surry County groundwater contains hardness, a chemical called hfpo_da, and iron, though contaminant levels here are low. None of these substances exceed EPA health standards.
The crystalline rock beneath Surry County naturally contains minerals that dissolve slowly into groundwater as water passes through tiny cracks and spaces. This rock does not hold large deposits of iron or sulfur compounds, which keeps contamination levels minimal. The county's geology also resists the buildup of harmful substances that plague other regions.
Groundwater in this county is soft, with very low iron present. The crystalline bedrock here contributes minimal dissolved minerals to well water compared to limestone or shale regions. Most wells in Surry County show this soft-water character consistently.
Good news--testing in Surry County shows that wells here do not exceed EPA health standards for drinking water contaminants. Your well water does not pose known health risks from regulated harmful substances.
Wells in this county have very soft water, which means you will not see hard water stains, scale buildup on fixtures, or soap scum problems. The water should taste clean and fresh. Some wells show low levels of iron, which does not create staining or taste issues at these concentrations.
Every well is different, and your well may have higher or lower levels of contaminants than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so you can treat it properly if needed. We recommend a basic screening for bacteria and nitrate, which runs about $50-$100. If you notice any changes in your water's appearance, taste, or smell, a more comprehensive panel can check for metals and minerals.
| Contaminant | Samples ⓘ | % Above MCL ⓘ | Distribution ⓘ | Confidence ⓘ | Risk ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HFPO-DA (GenX) ⓘ municipal | 11 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| Iron | 1 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| PFHxS ⓘ municipal | 11 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| PFNA ⓘ municipal | 11 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| PFOA ⓘ municipal | 11 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| PFOS ⓘ municipal | 11 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| Hardness | 1 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| PFBS ⓘ municipal | 11 | — | Low | Safe | |
| pH | 1 | — | Low | Low ⓘ |
MCL = Maximum Contaminant Level (EPA limit for public water; used as benchmark for private wells). Distribution shows % of sampled wells in each concentration band. Methodology.
* Microbial contaminants (E. coli, coliform) reflect only samples from the last 10 years.
Data shows potential risk — a certified test confirms whether your water is affected.
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