Well Water in Titus County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Titus County contains manganese, iron, chloride, and sulfate. These contaminants exceed EPA health standards, so well owners should test their water and know what is in it.

The rock layers beneath Titus County naturally contain these metals and salts. Iron and manganese dissolve into groundwater as it moves slowly through the soil and rock below the surface. Chloride and sulfate are also present in the local rock, and they become concentrated in well water over time.

Groundwater in this county is soft but high in sodium and iron. The iron comes from minerals in the local rock that dissolve as water passes through, while sodium accumulates in the groundwater naturally. These characteristics are found in many wells across the county.

Wells in Titus County sometimes contain chloride, iron, manganese, and sulfate at levels above EPA health standards. Manganese can affect the brain and nervous system, especially in children and infants. Iron and chloride at high levels can cause digestive problems. Sulfate in drinking water can have a laxative effect on some people.

The high sodium levels in county well water can be a concern if someone in your home has high blood pressure or heart disease. Iron in wells often leaves reddish stains on fixtures, laundry, and dishes. It can also make water taste metallic or leave sediment at the bottom of a glass.

We recommend testing your well water to find out what is actually in it, since every well is different and yours may have more or fewer of these issues than what is common across the county. A comprehensive minerals and metals panel typically costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars and is the only way to know what treatment your well truly needs. Iron filters and chloride reduction systems are two options that can help if testing shows high levels.