Well Water in Washington County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Washington County contains iron, arsenic, sulfate, and other contaminants that well owners should know about. Several of these contaminants--arsenic, iron, PFOA, PFOS, and sulfate--exceed EPA health standards, making testing and treatment important.

The deep limestone and sandstone rock layers beneath this county naturally release iron and other minerals into groundwater as water moves slowly through them over many years. Arsenic also occurs naturally in these rock layers. PFOA and PFOS are human-made chemicals that may enter groundwater from certain industrial or commercial activities in the area.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the limestone below, and iron is present at very high levels. As water passes through limestone and deeper rock, it dissolves these minerals and carries them into wells. Very hard water and elevated iron are common across wells throughout the county.

Wells in Washington County commonly contain arsenic, PFOA, PFOS, iron, and sulfate at levels above EPA health standards. Arsenic exposure over time can increase the risk of cancer and damage organs like the kidneys and nervous system. PFOA and PFOS are "forever chemicals" that build up in your body and can affect your immune system, liver, and thyroid. Iron itself is not a direct health concern at the levels found here, but the combination of these contaminants means your well water needs attention.

Wells in this county are extremely hard, which causes white, crusty scale buildup on fixtures, pipes, and inside appliances. Iron creates orange and brown staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry that is difficult to remove. This extreme hardness can shorten the lifespan of water heaters, dishwashers, and other appliances. You may also notice a metallic taste or smell in your water.

We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel to find out exactly what is in your well, since every well is different and your water may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what you are dealing with so it can be properly treated. A full panel typically costs between $200 and $400. Treatment options like arsenic removal systems combined with water softeners and iron filters can address multiple contaminants at once.