Well Water in Erie County: What to Test and Why

Lead, manganese, iron, chloride, radon, and sulfate are present in Erie County groundwater at levels exceeding EPA health standards. These contaminant levels are concerning enough that well owners need to know about them and take action.

The rock beneath this county naturally contains minerals that dissolve into water as it moves through cracks and fractures underground. Lead can also seep in from old pipes and plumbing materials in homes. Radon comes from radioactive uranium that breaks down in the bedrock over time. Road salt and other sources add chloride to groundwater in populated areas.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the bedrock. Hard water forms when water stays in contact with rock for long periods, dissolving these minerals. Iron concentrations are also high and add to the mineral content. These characteristics are widespread across wells throughout the county.

Wells in Erie County commonly exceed EPA health standards for chloride, iron, lead, manganese, radon, and sulfate. Lead damages children's developing brains and causes learning problems. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk. Manganese can harm brain development in children. Chloride and sulfate at high levels can affect kidney function and digestion. Iron and lead both pose serious health concerns when present above safe thresholds.

The water in this county is very hard, which creates noticeable problems around your home. You will see orange or brown staining on fixtures, laundry, and surfaces from iron buildup. Hard water leaves white scale inside pipes and on appliances, which can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers. Scale buildup reduces water flow and makes cleaning less effective. Some people notice a metallic or bitter taste.

Your well is unique, and your water may contain much higher or lower levels than what is common here. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well so you can treat it properly. We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, which typically costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars. Depending on results, treatment options like water softeners, iron filters, or radon removal systems can address specific problems in your water.