Well Water in Delaware County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Delaware County contains manganese, sulfate, arsenic, chloride, and PFOA at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concentrations the EPA considers unsafe for long-term drinking water exposure.

Manganese and arsenic dissolve naturally from the rock layers beneath the county as groundwater sits in contact with minerals over time. Sulfate and chloride come from the same rock source, though some chloride enters from road salt applied during winter months. PFOA is a synthetic chemical that enters groundwater from industrial or commercial sources and persists in the environment.

Groundwater in Delaware County is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the limestone and dolomite bedrock below. Iron also concentrates in the water as it moves slowly through rock cracks and fractures. These hard water and elevated iron characteristics are common across wells throughout the county.

Wells in Delaware County commonly contain arsenic, chloride, manganese, and PFOA at levels that exceed EPA health standards, along with elevated sulfate. Arsenic is a poison that builds up in your body over years and increases cancer risk. Manganese can harm brain development and nervous system function. PFOA is a synthetic chemical linked to serious health problems including kidney disease and thyroid issues. Chloride at high levels is a concern for people on salt-restricted diets.

The water in this county is extremely hard, meaning you will see thick white crusty buildup on faucets, shower heads, and inside pipes. Iron causes orange-brown staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. High sulfate can give your water a bitter taste or rotten-egg smell. This extreme hardness can shorten the lifespan of water heaters, dishwashers, and other appliances.

We recommend testing your well with a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, since multiple contaminants exceed health standards. Every well is different--your water 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 well so it can be properly treated. Treatment options like reverse osmosis systems or specialized filters can address arsenic and PFOA, while water softeners help with hardness and mineral buildup.