Well Water in Suffolk County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Suffolk County contains iron, sulfate, chloride, and fluorinated chemicals called PFOA and PFOS that exceed EPA health standards. Iron and sulfate are present at moderate levels, while chloride and the PFAS compounds pose health concerns that require your attention.

Iron dissolves naturally from the sand and rock layers that make up the county's aquifer. Chloride enters from road salt, septic systems, and saltwater intrusion near coastal areas. The fluorinated chemicals PFOA and PFOS come from industrial sites, firefighting foam, and contaminated groundwater moving through the soil.

Groundwater in this county is notable for elevated iron as the main mineral character. Iron concentrates in this area because the sandy aquifer naturally releases it into water passing through. Moderate iron levels show up across many wells throughout Suffolk County, making this a widespread issue in the area.

Suffolk County wells commonly exceed EPA health standards for chloride, iron, PFOA, PFOS, and PFHXS. Chloride at high levels harms people with heart disease or high blood pressure. PFOA and PFOS are fluorinated chemicals that damage the liver, thyroid, and immune system with long-term exposure. PFHXS is a related fluorinated chemical with similar health concerns. Iron itself does not cause illness, but the other contaminants in county wells create serious health risks.

Iron in county wells causes rust-colored staining on sinks, tubs, and laundry. The water may taste metallic or smell like rotten eggs. Iron buildup inside pipes reduces water flow over time. These minerals can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers.

Your well is unique and may have higher or lower levels than what is common here. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so it can be treated properly. We recommend a comprehensive panel to check for metals, minerals, and PFAS chemicals, which costs between $200 and $400. Reverse osmosis filters and activated carbon can remove many of these contaminants.