Well Water in Dade County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Dade County contains iron, manganese, and arsenic. Iron and manganese levels are high enough to exceed EPA health standards, which means well owners should test their water and consider treatment.

These metals come from the rocks beneath the county. The Valley and Ridge formation here contains iron-bearing minerals that dissolve into groundwater as water moves through the stone over time.

Groundwater in this county is notably high in iron, which is the dominant mineral affecting water character. Iron concentrations in this area's rock layers release into the water naturally as it filters down and moves through the ground. Most wells in Dade County show elevated iron, making this a widespread feature across the area.

Wells in Dade County commonly have iron and manganese at levels above EPA health standards. Iron can cause problems with your blood and organs if you drink too much over time. Manganese can affect your nervous system and cause issues with how your brain works, especially in children. These metals come from the ground and dissolve into your water.

The high iron in county wells causes visible staining on your clothes, fixtures, and anything the water touches. You may see reddish or brownish marks on sinks, tubs, and laundry. Iron can also make your water taste metallic or leave deposits in pipes and appliances. Even though the water looks clean, these stains show that iron is present and building up in your home.

We recommend you test your well water with a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, which typically costs two hundred to four hundred dollars. Every well is different, and yours could have higher or lower levels than what we see across the county. Testing is the only way to know exactly what is in your water so you can treat it properly. Iron removal systems and manganese filters are available treatment options for these specific problems.