Well Water in Cleveland County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Cleveland County contains manganese, radon, pfoa, and pfos. These contaminants are present at levels high enough to exceed EPA health standards, which means well owners should have their water tested and may need treatment.

These contaminants come from different sources in the area. Manganese occurs naturally in the crystalline rock beneath the county. Radon seeps from the same rock as it decays underground. PFOA and PFOS are human-made chemicals that have entered groundwater through industrial use and contamination, not from the rock itself.

Groundwater in this county is soft with low iron and low sulfate, meaning it has few dissolved minerals that affect water character. The crystalline bedrock here does not contain the limestone or shale layers that would add minerals to the water. These characteristics are consistent across most wells in the county.

Wells in Cleveland County have shown elevated levels of manganese, PFOA, PFOS, and radon above EPA health standards. Manganese at high levels can affect the nervous system and cause problems with learning and coordination in children. PFOA and PFOS are chemicals linked to health issues including liver damage, thyroid problems, and immune system effects. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk when breathed in over time.

The good news is that the minerals in county well water are generally low, so you probably won't see staining from iron, taste problems from sodium, or the chalky buildup that comes with hard water. Your appliances should not experience shortened lifespans from mineral buildup. Water quality in this county is soft, which is easier on pipes and fixtures.

We recommend testing your well for a comprehensive panel that includes manganese, PFOA, PFOS, and radon, since multiple contaminants are a concern here. Every well is different, and your water could have higher or lower levels than what's common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well so you can treat it properly if needed. A comprehensive metals and contaminants panel typically costs between $200 and $400.