Well Water in Duval County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Duval County contains radon, chloride, and arsenic as top contaminants. Several of these substances exceed EPA health standards, including arsenic, chloride, fluoride, iron, manganese, nitrate, radon, and sulfate.

These contaminants come from natural sources in the local rock beneath the county. The other rocks that make up this area's aquifer naturally contain arsenic, radon from radioactive minerals, and salt minerals like chloride and sulfate. Nitrate can seep in from land use above, mixing with water as it moves through the ground.

Groundwater in this county is very hard and notably high in sodium and sulfate. These minerals dissolve naturally from the surrounding rock as water moves through it. Most wells in Duval County show these same mineral characteristics, though the specific levels vary from well to well.

Duval County well water shows several contaminants that exceed EPA health standards. Arsenic, radon, and fluoride at elevated levels raise concerns about cancer risk and organ damage over time. Nitrate above safe levels is a particular concern for infants and young children. Chloride and sulfate also exceed standards in county wells, adding to the mix of contaminants present.

The very hard water in this county creates visible and practical problems. Water heaters, dishwashers, and other appliances wear out faster due to mineral buildup. You will likely see white scale on faucets and showerheads, along with staining from iron. The high sodium content gives water a noticeable salty taste that many people find unpleasant.

Because every well is different and your water may have higher or lower levels than what is common here, we recommend testing. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel costs between two and four hundred dollars and is the only way to know what is actually in your well so you can treat it properly. Reverse osmosis systems and ion exchange water softeners can address multiple concerns.