Well Water in Blair County: What to Test and Why

Blair County groundwater contains iron, radon, sulfate, chloride, lead, and PFOA/PFOS at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concerning levels that require attention.

The Valley and Ridge rock beneath Blair County naturally contains iron and sulfate-bearing minerals. As groundwater moves slowly through cracks and spaces in this layered rock, it dissolves these minerals over time. Radon forms when uranium trapped inside the rock breaks down radioactively. Chloride and lead enter wells from surface sources like road salt and old plumbing materials that contact acidic groundwater.

Groundwater in Blair County is hard, driven by calcium and magnesium from the surrounding rock layers. The slow movement of water through these folded limestone and shale formations allows these minerals to dissolve into the water. Wells across the county commonly show this combination of hardness, elevated iron, and radon.

Wells in Blair County commonly contain chloride, iron, lead, PFOA, PFOS, radon, and sulfate at levels exceeding EPA health standards. Lead damages brain development in children and harms the nervous system in adults. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk with long-term exposure. PFOA and PFOS are chemicals that can affect liver function and immune system health. Chloride, sulfate, and iron at elevated levels also pose health concerns.

Wells in this county produce very hard water that leaves white crusty buildup on pipes and fixtures. Iron causes orange and brown staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. High iron can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers. Sulfate can give the water a bitter or unpleasant taste. The combination of hardness and mineral content creates significant quality-of-life challenges for homeowners.

We recommend testing your well right away through a certified lab. Every well is different, and your water may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. A comprehensive metals and radon panel typically costs between $200 and $400 and is the only way to know what is actually in your water. Treatment options like aeration combined with water softeners and specialized filters can address these contaminants.