Well Water in Lake County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Lake County contains iron, sulfate, and arsenic that well owners should know about. Iron and sulfate levels exceed EPA health standards, so these contaminants warrant attention.

Iron and sulfate come from the local rock itself. As water slowly moves through the mixed rock layers beneath Lake County, it dissolves these minerals naturally. Arsenic also occurs in the rock and can leach into groundwater in small amounts.

Groundwater in this county is notably high in iron. Iron concentrates here because water passing through the local rock dissolves it over time, and this area's geology contains iron-bearing minerals. High iron is widespread across wells in Lake County.

Iron and sulfate show up at levels above EPA health standards in wells across Lake County. Iron at elevated levels can cause health concerns with long-term exposure, though it is not an immediate danger. Sulfate at high levels can affect people with sensitive stomachs or certain health conditions.

Wells in this county sometimes show orange or brown staining on fixtures and laundry from iron in the water. You might notice a metallic taste or smell. The county's water is soft, so you won't see heavy scale buildup on pipes and appliances like you would in harder-water areas.

Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well, since every well is different and yours may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, which typically costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars. Iron removal systems or sulfate filters can help treat these contaminants once you know your specific levels.