Well Water in Schenectady County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Schenectady County contains radon, iron, lead, chloride, and PFOA at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Several of these contaminants pose health concerns that well owners need to address.

Radon enters groundwater naturally from radioactive decay in the bedrock below. Lead and PFOA come from human sources--old pipes and plumbing fixtures contribute lead, while PFOA comes from industrial use and contaminated sites. Chloride seeps in from road salt and other surface sources. The carbonate limestone under this county creates conditions where these contaminants can move through cracks and dissolve into the water supply.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by calcium and magnesium dissolved from the limestone bedrock as water flows through it. The carbonate rock slowly dissolves, releasing these minerals into the water. Very hard water is widespread across wells throughout the county.

Wells in Schenectady County show several contaminants that exceed EPA health standards. Chloride, iron, lead, and PFOA can all be present at concerning levels in county groundwater. Lead is especially serious because it harms children's brains and development, even at low levels. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases cancer risk when breathed in over time. PFOA is a chemical linked to serious health problems including kidney disease and high cholesterol.

The very hard water common in this county creates stubborn stains on sinks and showers that are difficult to remove. You may notice scale buildup inside pipes and on appliances, and the water can taste slightly bitter or metallic. Very hard water can actually shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers by years because minerals clog and corrode the equipment inside.

Every well is different, and your well could have much higher or lower levels than what is typical here. Testing is the only way to know exactly what is in your water so you can treat it properly. We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, which costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars and checks for all the main concerns at once. Depending on results, treatment options range from simple carbon filters to whole-house systems and radon mitigation.