Well Water in Macon County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Macon County contains arsenic and lead at levels that exceed EPA health standards, which well owners should be aware of and test for. These contaminants appear in amounts significant enough to warrant concern and monitoring.

Arsenic and lead come from the bedrock itself--the carbonate rocks and minerals in the ground naturally contain these elements, and water passing through dissolves small amounts over time. Land use can also contribute, particularly if wells are located near old mining areas, roads with past lead-based paints, or septic systems, but the primary source is the local geology.

Groundwater in this county is soft with moderate iron content. Iron dissolves out of the local carbonate bedrock as water moves through cracks and dissolves minerals. These characteristics show up in many wells across Macon County, though the exact levels vary from well to well depending on depth and location.

Wells in Macon County can contain arsenic and lead at levels above what the EPA considers acceptable for long-term drinking water. Arsenic exposure over time can increase the risk of cancer and cause problems with skin, heart, and nervous system health. Lead is especially concerning for children and pregnant women because it can affect brain development and learning. Even small amounts of lead consumed over years can add up to cause real health problems.

The good news is that Macon County wells are generally soft with low sodium and sulfate levels, so you probably won't see much staining, scale buildup, or taste issues from minerals. Your water heater and dishwasher should not wear out faster than normal from mineral damage. The moderate iron level in some wells might cause some orange or brown tinting in sinks or laundry, but this is mainly an appearance issue, not a health concern.

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 metals and minerals panel typically costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars and will tell you exactly what you're dealing with. Testing is the only way to know if treatment like a carbon filter or water softener would help your specific situation.