Well Water in Brunswick County: What to Test and Why

Wells in Brunswick County contain PFOS, PFOA, chloride, iron, radon, and sulfate at levels high enough to exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concerning levels that warrant attention and testing.

PFOS and PFOA are industrial chemicals that have contaminated groundwater through past industrial use and improper disposal sites, particularly near military bases and manufacturing areas. Chloride and sulfate enter the water from saltwater intrusion near the coast and from natural mineral deposits in the sand and clay layers underground. Radon comes from natural radioactive breakdown in the rock and soil.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium dissolved from the sand and clay aquifer layers as water moves slowly through the ground. The moderate iron content adds to the mineral load. These mineral characteristics are widespread across wells throughout the county.

Wells in Brunswick County commonly have chloride, iron, PFOA, PFOS, radon, and sulfate at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Chloride and sulfate can affect kidney function and digestion over time. PFOA and PFOS are synthetic chemicals that can build up in your body and harm your immune system and liver. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk when breathed in over many years.

The very hard water in county wells causes stubborn staining on fixtures and dishes. Soap doesn't lather well and leaves residue on skin and hair. The mineral buildup creates scale inside pipes and on water heaters that shortens the lifespan of appliances like dishwashers and water heaters. You might notice a metallic taste or reddish stains in sinks and toilets from the iron.

We recommend testing your well with a comprehensive panel since multiple contaminants exceed health standards in this county. Every well is different, and yours could have higher or lower levels than what is common here. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so you can treat it properly. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs $200-400 and can identify what you're dealing with. Water softeners address hardness, and activated carbon filters can help reduce some chemical contaminants.