Well Water in Ellis County: What to Test and Why

Wells in Ellis County contain radon, fluoride, iron, manganese, nitrate, and PFOA and PFOS. Several of these contaminants exceed EPA health standards, making them a concern for well owners who depend on private water supplies.

These contaminants come from a mix of sources tied to the local rock and human activity. Radon enters from natural decay of uranium in the rock layers below. Fluoride occurs naturally in the groundwater from mineral dissolution. Iron and manganese seep in from the surrounding rock. Nitrate, PFOA, and PFOS come from land use--septic systems, fertilizers, industrial activity, and firefighting foam--that reach the water table.

Groundwater in Ellis County is notably high in sodium, which is the dominant mineral character of the water in this area. Sodium concentrates because the rock layers and soil allow dissolved salts to accumulate as water moves slowly underground. This sodium-rich character is common across many wells throughout the county.

Wells in Ellis County have been found to exceed EPA health standards for fluoride, iron, manganese, nitrate, PFOA, PFOS, and radon. Fluoride at elevated levels can affect bone and dental health, especially in children. Nitrate exposure is a concern for infants and can interfere with oxygen in the blood. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk when breathed in over time. Iron and manganese at high levels can cause organ damage with long-term exposure. PFOA and PFOS are human-made chemicals linked to health problems including immune system effects and cancer risk.

County well water tends to have very high sodium levels, which can affect taste and create a salty flavor. While the water here is relatively soft, the sodium content is the main quality-of-life concern for most households. Some people notice a slightly salty taste or feel on their skin when using the water.

We recommend testing your well to see what is actually in your water, since every well is different and yours may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Because multiple analytes exceed health standards here, a comprehensive panel testing metals, minerals, and contaminants is recommended to get the full picture. Testing costs between $200 and $400 and is the only way to know what treatment your well needs. Water softeners, reverse osmosis systems, or activated carbon filters can address different concerns depending on your test results.