Well Water in Fairfax city: What to Test and Why

Well owners in Fairfax City should be aware of iron, manganese, and chloride in their groundwater. These contaminants are present at levels high enough to exceed EPA health standards, which means they deserve attention.

These metals and salt come from the crystalline bedrock itself--granite, schist, and other hard rocks that make up the Piedmont geology. As water moves through cracks and spaces in this rock over time, it dissolves iron and manganese naturally present in the minerals. Chloride can come from road salt and de-icing materials that seep down into the groundwater, especially near roads and developed areas.

Groundwater in this city is moderately hard and notably high in iron and sodium, driven by those minerals leaching from the crystalline bedrock below. The iron concentration is very high, and sodium is elevated as well. Many wells across the city show these same characteristics since they all tap into the same underlying rock formation.

Wells in Fairfax City commonly have chloride, iron, and manganese at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Chloride at high levels can be a concern for people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Iron and manganese can cause problems with the nervous system and brain development, especially in children and infants who drink the water over time.

The high iron and manganese in county well water cause orange, brown, or black staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. You might notice a metallic or unpleasant taste in your water. The water can also stain your teeth or leave deposits on fixtures. Hard water in this county can build up scale in pipes and water heaters, shortening how long your appliances last.

We recommend getting your well tested to find out exactly what is in your water, since every well is different and your water could have higher or lower levels than what is common here. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel usually costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars. Testing is the only way to know if treatment is needed and what type would work best for your situation, such as a water softener or iron filter.