Well Water in Wilson County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Wilson County contains iron, manganese, and arsenic. Iron and manganese exceed EPA health standards at levels of concern in this area.

The sandy and clayey underground layers that make up this part of the Atlantic Coastal Plain naturally contain these metals. As water seeps down through these sediments, iron and manganese dissolve into the groundwater. Arsenic also occurs naturally in these layers, though at lower concentrations.

Groundwater in this county is moderately hard, with elevated iron being the most noticeable mineral characteristic. Iron dissolves naturally as water passes through the sediments below the surface. This moderate hardness and iron elevation are common across wells throughout the county.

Wells in Wilson County often contain iron and manganese at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Iron can cause problems with how your body absorbs certain nutrients over time. Manganese at elevated levels can affect the nervous system, particularly in children and infants whose bodies absorb more of this metal. Arsenic is also a concern in some county wells and builds up in your body over years of exposure, raising the risk of serious health effects.

The moderately hard water in this county will leave rust-colored or brown stains on sinks, toilets, and laundry. You may notice a metallic taste in your water or discoloration when you turn on the tap. Scale buildup on faucets and shower heads is common. Over time, mineral deposits can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers.

Every well in this county is different, and your well may have higher or lower levels of these contaminants than what is common here. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so you can treat it properly. We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, which typically costs two hundred to four hundred dollars. Depending on your results, treatment options like iron filters or water softeners can help.