Well Water in Bucks County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Bucks County contains radon, PFOA, and PFOS that well owners should be aware of. Several contaminants including iron, sulfate, PFOA, radon, chloride, PFOS, and PFNA exceed EPA health standards and demand your attention.

These contaminants come from multiple sources rooted in the county's geology and land use. Radon forms naturally from uranium decay inside the carbonate rock beneath the county. PFOA and PFOS are industrial chemicals that have entered groundwater through manufacturing and contaminated sites. Iron and sulfate dissolve naturally as water moves through the limestone and carbonate rock. Chloride enters from road salt applied to highways and parking lots.

Groundwater in Bucks County is moderately hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the limestone bedrock. Iron at moderate levels also contributes to the water's mineral character. These characteristics are common across wells in the county, reflecting the widespread carbonate aquifer beneath the region.

Wells in Bucks County commonly exceed EPA health standards for several contaminants. Iron, radon, and the industrial chemicals PFOA, PFOS, and PFNA all show up at concerning levels in county wells. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases cancer risk over time. The PFOA, PFOS, and PFNA chemicals have been linked to thyroid disease, liver damage, and other serious health effects. Iron itself is not a direct health threat, but it signals that other harmful substances may also be present in your water.

The mineral content in Bucks County wells creates noticeable quality-of-life problems. Iron stains sinks, toilets, and laundry with rust-colored marks that are difficult to remove. The moderately hard water leaves white crusty buildup on faucets and fixtures. Over time, this scale can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers. You may also notice a metallic taste or dry feeling on skin and hair.

We recommend testing your well with a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, which typically costs $200 to $400. 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. Aeration systems and activated carbon filters can address several of these contaminants.