Well Water in Duval County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Duval County contains radon, chloride, and arsenic as the main contaminants well owners should know about. Multiple contaminants exceed EPA health standards here, including arsenic, chloride, fluoride, iron, manganese, nitrate, radon, and sulfate, which means water testing and treatment warrant serious attention.

These contaminants come from the local rock layers and salt deposits that underlie the county. Radon seeps from natural radioactive minerals in the rock. Chloride, sodium, and sulfate build up because the groundwater flows through layers containing salt and mineral deposits left behind from ancient seas that once covered this region. Nitrate can enter from agricultural and septic sources in the area.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium, and it carries notably high sodium and sulfate that reflect the salty mineral-rich rock below. The iron and sulfate present add to the mineral load. These characteristics are widespread across wells throughout Duval County because they come from the fundamental makeup of the rock layers that supply water to the region.

Wells in Duval County have been found to contain arsenic, fluoride, radon, nitrate, and radioactive elements at levels above EPA health standards. Arsenic can damage your kidneys and increase cancer risk with long-term exposure. Radon is a radioactive gas that raises lung cancer risk. Fluoride at elevated levels can cause bone and dental problems. Nitrate is especially dangerous for babies and can cause serious illness.

The water in this county is very hard, which means you will see white scale buildup on faucets and fixtures. Your soap won't lather well, and clothes may feel stiff after washing. Very hard water can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers. The water also contains high levels of sodium and sulfate, which can affect how the water tastes and smells.

We recommend testing your well with a comprehensive panel since multiple contaminants exceed health standards in county wells. Every well is different--yours could have higher or lower levels than what is common here. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so you can treat it properly. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs between $200 and $400 and will tell you exactly what you are dealing with. Treatment options like reverse osmosis systems or activated carbon filters can address different contaminants.