Well Water in Anson County: What to Test and Why

Anson County groundwater contains manganese, iron, chloride, and PFOS that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminant levels are notable enough that well owners should have their water tested and consider treatment options.

The sandy and clay layers that make up the aquifer system in this area naturally release manganese and iron into groundwater over time as water moves through the rock. Chloride and PFOS likely come from a mix of natural sources and human activity, including road salt use and industrial or commercial products that have leached down into the water below.

Groundwater in this county is soft, with moderate iron being the main mineral character of the water. Iron concentrates here because the sandy and clay aquifer contains iron-bearing minerals that dissolve slowly as groundwater passes through them. Most wells in the county show this moderate iron presence, though individual wells vary in their exact levels.

Wells in Anson County have been found with chloride, iron, manganese, and PFOS at levels above EPA health standards. Chloride at high levels can affect people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Iron and manganese above health standards can cause problems with the nervous system, especially in children and babies. PFOS is a chemical that builds up in your body over time and can affect your immune system and liver.

The iron in county wells can leave orange or brown stains on sinks, toilets, and laundry. You might notice a metallic taste in the water or see rust-colored particles. Manganese can create dark brown or black stains. Since the water in this county is soft, you won't have heavy scale buildup in pipes and appliances like you would in harder water areas.

We recommend testing your well to find out exactly what is in your water, since every well is different and your levels could be higher or lower than what is common in the county. A comprehensive panel that checks for metals, minerals, bacteria, and chemicals runs between two hundred and four hundred dollars and is the only way to know what needs to be treated. Iron and manganese can be removed with filtering systems, and PFOS requires specialized carbon filters.