Well Water in Bradford County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Bradford County contains radon, chloride, and iron as the primary contaminants well owners should know about. Several of these contaminants exceed EPA health standards and require attention.

These contaminants come from the Mississippian rock beneath the county. Radon forms naturally from radioactive minerals in the bedrock. Iron and chloride dissolve from the rock as groundwater moves slowly through cracks and fractures. Road salt applied to highways during winter seeps down and accumulates as chloride in the water.

Groundwater in Bradford County is moderately hard, driven by calcium and magnesium from the limestone and mineral-rich rock layers below. Iron at moderate levels also shapes the water's character. These mineral and contaminant characteristics show up across many wells in the county.

Wells in Bradford County commonly have chloride, sulfate, iron, lead, and radon at levels above 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 over time. Chloride and sulfate at elevated levels can affect people with certain health conditions. Iron itself is not toxic, but these multiple contaminants together create a serious situation requiring attention.

The moderately hard water in Bradford County wells causes visible staining and buildup. Iron leaves orange or rust-colored deposits on sinks, toilets, and laundry. You may notice a metallic taste in your water. Hard water also shortens the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers over time.

We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel to test your well, since multiple contaminants exceed health standards in this county. Every well is different, and your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common here. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so it can be treated properly. A comprehensive panel typically costs $200 to $400, and treatment options like aeration systems and activated carbon filters are available for these contaminants.