Well Water in Hansford County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Hansford County contains iron, fluoride, and arsenic. Fluoride and iron are present at levels that exceed EPA health standards and warrant attention.

The High Plains aquifer that supplies this county sits on sand and gravel mixed with minerals naturally rich in iron and fluoride. As water moves slowly through these layers underground, it dissolves these minerals and picks them up along the way. Arsenic also occurs naturally in the rock and soil here.

This county's water is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the rock below. The sandy and gravelly layers of the High Plains aquifer contain minerals that dissolve into groundwater as it passes through, creating this hardness. Most wells across Hansford County show this characteristic very hard water.

Wells in Hansford County commonly have fluoride and iron at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Fluoride at elevated levels can cause dental fluorosis, which appears as white spots or streaks on teeth, especially in children whose teeth are still developing. Iron above health standards can cause problems in people with certain health conditions and may accumulate in organs over time.

The very hard water in this county creates several quality-of-life challenges. Hard water leaves white scale buildup on faucets, showerheads, and inside pipes. It makes soap and shampoo less effective, and you may notice staining from iron on sinks and toilets. Over time, very hard water shortens the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers.

We recommend testing your well water to find out what is actually in it, since every well is different and your water may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs between $200 and $400 and will tell you exactly what needs treatment. Depending on your results, iron filters or a water softener can help address these concerns.