Well Water in Granville County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Granville County contains radon, PFOS, and PFOA that well owners should know about. Some wells show levels of chloride, PFOA, PFOS, and radon that exceed EPA health standards, so testing is important for wells in affected areas.

These contaminants come from different sources. Radon seeps naturally from the crystalline rock deep underground in this region. PFOS and PFOA are human-made chemicals that have entered some groundwater through industrial use and disposal practices over time.

Groundwater in Granville County is soft with moderate iron levels. The crystalline rock here does not release large amounts of hardness minerals like calcium and magnesium, which is why water stays soft. Iron is present at moderate levels because it naturally occurs in the local rock and dissolves slowly into groundwater. These water characteristics vary from well to well across the county.

Wells in Granville County show some contaminants at levels above EPA health standards. Chloride, PFOA, and PFOS are found in county well water above recommended limits. Chloride at high levels can affect people with heart or kidney problems. PFOA and PFOS are chemicals that build up in your body over time and may cause health problems with your liver, immune system, and thyroid. Radon is a radioactive gas that enters groundwater naturally and increases lung cancer risk when you breathe it in over many years.

The good news is that the mineral content in county wells is generally balanced and shouldn't cause problems around your house. Iron levels are moderate, so you might see some rust staining on fixtures or in your laundry, but it's not severe. The water is soft, which means you won't deal with heavy scale buildup on pipes or appliances, and your water heater should last a normal lifespan. You shouldn't notice problems with taste, odor, or soap scum from the minerals found here.

We recommend testing your well to find out what is actually in your water, since every well is different and yours could have higher or lower levels than the county average. A comprehensive panel for metals and contaminants costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars and will show you exactly what needs treatment. Depending on what your test shows, treatment options like activated carbon filters or radon removal systems can address specific concerns.