Chloride, e_coli, and fecal_coliform are present in Arlington County's groundwater. Contaminant levels here are low and do not exceed EPA health standards.
Chloride enters groundwater mainly from road salt and de-icing materials applied during winter months across roads and parking lots in this urban area. Bacteria like e_coli and fecal_coliform come from septic systems, leaking sewer lines, and other sources of human waste that seep into the ground. The sandy and gravelly layers that make up the local aquifer allow water to move relatively quickly through the soil, which can transport these contaminants toward wells.
Groundwater in this county is soft, marked by moderate sodium levels. Sodium accumulates from road salt that dissolves into groundwater and from the natural minerals in the sandy aquifer layers underground. These characteristics are found across many wells in Arlington County.
Wells in Arlington County can contain bacteria including E. coli and fecal coliform. These harmful bacteria come from contamination and can cause serious illness if you drink untreated water. Even wells that look and taste fine can harbor these pathogens, so bacterial testing is essential before you use your well for drinking or cooking.
The good news is that wells in this county are soft, so you won't deal with heavy scale buildup in your pipes or appliances. Your water won't have the chalky taste or stubborn stains that come with hard water. This soft water is easier on your home's systems and will help your water heater and dishwasher last longer.
We recommend testing your well right away, especially for bacteria. Every well is different and yours could have higher contamination than what is common here. A basic screening test costs $50 to $100 and checks for bacteria and nitrate. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well so you can treat it properly. Disinfection systems and proper well maintenance can address bacterial concerns.
| Contaminant | Samples ⓘ | % Above MCL ⓘ | Distribution ⓘ | Confidence ⓘ | Risk ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iron | 1 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| HFPO-DA (GenX) ⓘ municipal | 8 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| Chloride | 1 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Fluoride | 1 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| Sodium | 1 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| PFBS ⓘ municipal | 8 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Hardness | 1 | — | Low | Low ⓘ |
MCL = Maximum Contaminant Level (EPA limit for public water; used as benchmark for private wells). Distribution shows % of sampled wells in each concentration band. Methodology.
* Microbial contaminants (E. coli, coliform) reflect only samples from the last 10 years.
Data shows potential risk — a certified test confirms whether your water is affected.
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