Well Water in Athens County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Athens County contains manganese, radon, and sulfate that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminant levels are concerning and warrant testing and possible treatment.

The rock beneath Athens County is coal-bearing shale and sandstone that formed in ancient swamps. As groundwater moves slowly through cracks and fractures in these rocks, it dissolves iron, manganese, and sulfate directly from the minerals. Radon gas seeps out naturally from radioactive minerals in the bedrock.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the rock layers below. Water sitting in contact with iron-rich shale releases iron and manganese into the supply. These characteristics are common across wells in Athens County.

Wells in Athens County commonly exceed EPA health standards for chloride, manganese, radon, and sulfate. Manganese can affect brain development and learning in children when exposure happens over time. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk when breathed in from shower steam and other household water use. Chloride at elevated levels is a concern for people on salt-restricted diets. These contaminants come directly from the bedrock and accumulate as groundwater moves slowly through cracks in the rock.

The very hard water in this county leaves thick white scale buildup on pipes, fixtures, and inside water heaters and dishwashers--scale that can shorten the lifespan of these appliances. Iron causes orange-brown or rust-colored stains on sinks, toilets, and laundry. Sulfate at the levels found here can give water a bitter or unpleasant taste. The combination of mineral content makes everyday tasks harder and increases maintenance needs around the home.

We recommend testing your well with a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, as every well is different and your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so it can be properly treated. A comprehensive panel typically costs between $200 and $400. Treatment options like whole-house filtration systems combined with water softeners can address multiple contaminants at once.