Well Water in Moore County: What to Test and Why

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

The underground sand and gravel layers in Moore County naturally contain iron and manganese minerals that dissolve into groundwater over time. Radon enters the water from radioactive elements in the surrounding rock. PFOA and PFOS are human-made chemicals that have contaminated groundwater through industrial use and waste disposal in the area.

Groundwater in Moore County is soft with moderate iron content as the main aesthetic feature. Iron comes from the sandy aquifer material and acidic conditions that help metals dissolve into the water. These characteristics show up in many wells across the county.

Wells in Moore County show elevated levels of iron, manganese, radon, and PFOA and PFOS in the water. Iron and manganese at high levels can cause problems with your blood and organs over time. Radon is a radioactive gas that builds up in your body and increases cancer risk. PFOA and PFOS are chemicals that don't break down and can hurt your liver and immune system.

The moderate iron in county wells creates staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. You might notice a metallic taste or smell in your water. The good news is that Moore County's water is soft, which means you won't have heavy scale buildup in pipes or appliances like you would in harder water areas.

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 others in the county. A comprehensive panel that checks for metals and chemicals runs $200 to $400 and is the only way to know what treatment your well needs. Iron and radon can be removed with the right filters and ventilation systems.