Well Water in Cleveland County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Cleveland County contains iron, PFOA, and PFOS at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concentrations serious enough to warrant attention from well owners.

Iron comes naturally from the crystalline rock beneath the county. PFOA and PFOS are human-made chemicals that enter groundwater from industrial sites, manufacturing facilities, and other sources on the land surface. Once in the ground, these chemicals travel through soil and rock to reach wells.

Groundwater in this county is soft but notably high in iron, which comes from minerals in the crystalline rock. As water moves through these rocks, it picks up iron that dissolves into the water. High iron levels are common across many wells in Cleveland County.

Wells in Cleveland County commonly contain iron, PFOA, and PFOS at levels above EPA health standards. Iron at elevated levels can affect the blood and organs over time. PFOA and PFOS are human-made chemicals linked to health concerns including changes in cholesterol levels, liver damage, and developmental effects in children. These contaminants require attention and proper treatment to reduce exposure.

The water in this county is soft, so you won't see the heavy scale buildup or appliance damage that comes with hard water. However, elevated iron does cause visible staining on fixtures, laundry, and surfaces. Iron can also give water an unpleasant metallic taste and create discoloration when you fill a glass or run the tap.

Every well is different, and your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so you can treat it properly. We recommend a comprehensive panel that checks for metals, minerals, and these specific contaminants, which typically costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars. Treatment options like activated carbon filters or ion exchange systems can help reduce these contaminants.