Well Water in Wexford County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Wexford County contains iron and manganese, which are metals that well owners should monitor. Both contaminants exceed EPA health standards, making testing important for any household relying on a private well.

Iron and manganese dissolve naturally from the rock layers beneath this county as groundwater sits in contact with them underground. The mixed composition of rocks and sediments here--not pure limestone or sandstone--allows these metals to enter the water over time.

Groundwater in Wexford County is high in iron, which comes from minerals naturally present in the underlying rock. As water moves slowly through these mixed rock layers, iron concentrates into the water. Iron at these levels is found across many wells in this county.

Wexford County wells commonly contain iron and manganese at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Long-term exposure to elevated iron can affect your blood and organs. Manganese exposure over time can damage your nervous system and brain development. Arsenic has also been detected in some county wells and is a concern for long-term health risks.

Wells in this county often show moderate iron levels that cause orange or brown staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. You may notice a metallic or unpleasant taste in your water. These minerals can also build up inside pipes and water heaters over time.

We recommend testing your well water to find out what is actually in it. Every well is different, and your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs $200 to $400 and will tell you exactly what you are dealing with. Iron removal filters or water softeners can help address these concerns once you know your results.