Groundwater in Loving County contains iron, manganese, and arsenic. All three of these contaminants exceed EPA health standards in this county's water, which means they are present at levels that warrant attention.
These metals come from the rocks underground in this area. The rock formations here naturally release iron and manganese into the water as it moves through the ground. Arsenic also occurs naturally in some of the rock layers in this region and dissolves into groundwater over time.
Groundwater in this county is notably high in iron and manganese from the rock below. As water passes through these rock layers, it picks up these metals naturally. Iron and manganese are common findings across wells throughout Loving County.
Wells in Loving County commonly have arsenic, iron, and manganese at levels above EPA health standards. Arsenic can damage organs and increase cancer risk with long-term exposure. Iron and manganese at elevated levels can cause problems with the nervous system and bones, especially in children and pregnant women.
The moderate iron levels in county wells create practical problems around your home. Iron stains sinks, toilets, and laundry a reddish-brown color and gives water an unpleasant metallic taste. Iron and manganese together can leave buildup inside pipes and reduce water flow over time.
We recommend a comprehensive water test to learn what is actually in your well, since every well is different and yours could have higher or lower levels than the county average. Testing is the only way to know what you are dealing with so you can treat it properly. A full metals and minerals panel costs around $200 to $400. Iron removal filters or aeration systems can help reduce these contaminants in your water.
Not sure if your well is affected? Get certified results in 5–7 days.
Test Your Well Water with Tap Score →| Contaminant | Samples ⓘ | % Above MCL ⓘ | Distribution ⓘ | Confidence ⓘ | Risk ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iron | 62 | 18% | Moderate | High | |
| Manganese | 59 | 10% | Moderate | Moderate | |
| Arsenic | 59 | 2% | Moderate | Low | |
| Fluoride | 112 | 0% | High | Low | |
| Lead | 57 | 0% | Moderate | Safe | |
| Nitrate | 11 | 0% | Low | Low | |
| Uranium | 3 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ |
MCL = Maximum Contaminant Level (EPA limit for public water; used as benchmark for private wells). Distribution shows % of sampled wells in each concentration band. Methodology.
* Microbial contaminants (E. coli, coliform) reflect only samples from the last 10 years.
Data shows potential risk — a certified test confirms whether your water is affected.
Order a Tap Score Test →Population-level CDC data. Not individual risk prediction.
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