Well Water in Columbus County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Columbus County contains arsenic, iron, and chloride at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concerning concentrations that well owners should take seriously.

The coastal plain geology here naturally releases arsenic and iron into groundwater as water moves through sand and clay layers underground. Chloride comes from both natural saltwater that sits deeper in the earth and from human activities like road salt and septic systems near the surface.

Groundwater in this county is soft with moderate iron as the notable mineral character. Iron concentrates here because the sandy and clay-rich layers of the coastal plain naturally contain iron minerals that dissolve into water. These characteristics show up in wells across the county, though the amount of iron and salt varies from well to well.

Wells in Columbus County have been found to contain arsenic and chloride at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Arsenic exposure through drinking water can cause skin problems, digestive issues, and increase the risk of certain cancers with long-term exposure. Chloride at elevated levels can affect people with heart or kidney problems who need to restrict salt intake.

The moderate iron levels in county wells can cause orange or brown staining on sinks, bathtubs, and laundry. Iron can also give water a metallic taste and create rust-colored buildup in pipes and appliances. The good news is that wells in this county are generally soft, so you won't have the scale buildup and shortened appliance lifespan that comes with very hard water.

We recommend testing your well water since every well is different and yours 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. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs $200 to $400 and will tell you exactly what you're dealing with. Treatment options like arsenic removal systems and iron filters can address the main concerns found in this area.