Well Water in Union County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Union County contains radon, iron, and arsenic that well owners should be aware of. Iron and radon exceed EPA health standards and are a concern in this area.

The Valley and Ridge bedrock beneath Union County naturally releases iron and radon into groundwater. Radon comes from small amounts of uranium trapped in the fractured rock layers, while iron dissolves as water moves slowly through shale and sandstone. Arsenic occurs naturally in the same rock formations but at levels below the EPA limit.

Groundwater in this county is soft, with moderate iron being the main mineral character that affects water quality. The shale and sandstone bedrock here naturally contains iron that dissolves into the water as it flows through fractures and cracks. Most wells in Union County show this moderate iron presence.

Wells in Union County commonly exceed EPA health standards for iron and radon. Radon is a radioactive gas that can increase lung cancer risk when you breathe it in over many years. Iron itself does not pose a direct health threat, but it indicates the mineral content of your water.

The moderate iron levels in county wells cause orange-brown staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. You may notice a metallic or unpleasant taste in your water. The water in this county is relatively soft, so you should not experience heavy scale buildup on appliances.

We recommend testing your well water for both radon and metals. 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 metals and radon panel typically costs $200-400 and will tell you exactly what needs attention. Treatment options like aeration systems and specialized radon removal can address these concerns.