Well Water in Genesee County: What to Test and Why

Chloride, iron, radon, and sulfate are present in Genesee County groundwater at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminant levels are serious and warrant attention from well owners.

The carbonate rock beneath this county naturally releases minerals like chloride and sulfate as water passes through it. Radon enters the groundwater from the natural radioactive decay of uranium in the bedrock. Iron also comes from minerals in the rock layers that dissolve into the water.

Groundwater in this county is hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the limestone and carbonate rock below. The moderate iron content adds to the mineral load. These characteristics are widespread across wells throughout the county.

Wells in Genesee County commonly exceed EPA health standards for chloride, iron, radon, and sulfate. Chloride at elevated levels can harm people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk when breathed in over time. Iron and sulfate above health thresholds can cause problems for certain groups, especially children and people with specific medical conditions.

Hard water is common in county wells and leaves white scale buildup inside pipes, on fixtures, and in appliances. This scale reduces water flow and can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers. You may notice rust stains on laundry and in sinks from iron, along with a metallic or bitter taste in your water.

We recommend having your well tested with a comprehensive panel that checks metals, minerals, bacteria, and radon. Every well is different--your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so it can be properly treated. A comprehensive panel typically costs $200 to $400 and may identify what treatment options work best for your situation.