Well Water in Westmoreland County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Westmoreland County contains arsenic, chloride, fluoride, iron, manganese, and sulfate at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concerning enough levels that well owners should test their water and understand where these chemicals come from.

The Northern Atlantic Coastal Plain aquifer system that supplies wells here is made of sand, gravel, and clay layers that naturally contain iron and manganese. Saltwater from the nearby coast can move into freshwater aquifers over time, bringing chloride and sodium. Arsenic and fluoride occur naturally in these sediment layers and release into groundwater as water passes through them.

Groundwater in this county is soft but high in sodium and iron. The sandy and clayey layers of the aquifer system naturally hold these minerals, and water moving through them picks up salt and iron compounds. Most wells in Westmoreland County show elevated sodium and moderate iron levels.

Wells in Westmoreland County show arsenic, chloride, and fluoride at levels above EPA health standards. Arsenic exposure over time can increase your risk of cancer and cause skin problems. Chloride and fluoride at elevated levels can harm your kidneys and bones with long-term use.

County wells show elevated sodium and iron. High sodium can leave a salty taste in your water. Iron causes orange or brown staining on fixtures, laundry, and surfaces, and can give water a metallic taste.

Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well, since every well in this county is different and your water could have higher or lower levels than what we see countywide. We recommend a comprehensive testing panel that covers metals and minerals, which typically costs $200 to $400. Treatment options like activated carbon filters or ion exchange systems can address multiple contaminants once you know what you are dealing with.