Well Water in Franklin County: What to Test and Why

Radon, arsenic, iron, and chloride are present in Franklin County groundwater at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants require attention from well owners in this area.

Carbonate limestone bedrock beneath Franklin County naturally contains uranium that breaks down into radon over time. Arsenic and iron dissolve from the rock layers as water moves through them. Chloride can enter groundwater from road salt and natural mineral sources in the bedrock.

Groundwater in this county is moderately hard, with elevated iron and moderate hardness driven by calcium and magnesium from the limestone below. The carbonate rock slowly releases these minerals as water flows through it underground. Elevated iron and moderately hard water are common findings across wells in Franklin County.

Wells in Franklin County commonly contain arsenic, chloride, iron, and radon at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Arsenic is a poison that can harm your kidneys, heart, and nervous system over time. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases your risk of lung cancer. Chloride at high levels can be harmful to people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Iron itself is not toxic, but elevated levels in drinking water are a concern for your health.

Wells in this county tend to be moderately hard, which means you may see rust-colored or brown staining on fixtures, laundry, and dishes from iron buildup. Scale can form inside pipes and reduce water flow. Some people notice a metallic taste in their water. The moderately hard water here can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers over time.

Every well in Franklin County is different, and your water could have higher or lower levels than what is common here. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well. We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel to check all the contaminants of concern, which typically costs $200-400. Treatment options like reverse osmosis systems or radon removal can help address specific problems once you know what you're dealing with.