3 Common Contaminants in Well Water

If you live in a rural area, you may get your drinking water from a private well. While this source is generally safe, the lack of a municipal treatment center means that certain contaminants can enter the groundwater and eventually your home's water supply. Thankfully, by understanding what contaminants may be present, you can invest in treatment to ensure the water is safe. Below are several pollutants to help you recognize issues.

What Are the Most Common Contaminants in Well Water?

1. Heavy Metals

Since well water comes from the ground, any nearby metals can eventually seep into the supply. One of the easiest ways to catch this in its early stages is to test the iron level in the water. You may also notice staining in your tubs, sinks, and/or laundry. Another way to spot this issue is to pay attention to how the water tastes. Any chemical or metallic flavors require you to test the water. Additionally, you can install a filtration system to remove metals that are already in the supply.

2. Nitrates

Nitrates are ions that naturally occur in soil and animal waste, and they are also present in fertilizer. While they are not harmful in small amounts, excessive exposure can be harmful to babies and pregnant women. This type of contamination often occurs when rain runoff causes fertilizer from nearby farms to seep into the groundwater. Installing a reverse osmosis filter is an excellent way to remove this contaminant and purify the drinking water. 

3. Microorganisms

Bacteria and viruses are some of the most dangerous contaminants that can get into your water supply. They often seep into groundwater through waste. Having your water tested at a certified lab is the best way to see if there are any of these contaminants in your water. An ultraviolet light system is an effective way to remove microorganisms, as the light damages their DNA and renders them harmless.

If you’re looking for filtration systems to improve the safety of your drinking water, or would like to have your water tested, contact McAleer Water Conditioning Inc. in Anamosa, IA. This locally owned and operated company has been serving customers throughout Jones, Linn, Dubuque, Delaware, and Jackson counties for more than 42 years. Visit the website for more information about their services, and call (800) 397-1995 to speak with a team member.