Well Water in Henrico County: What to Test and Why

Henrico County groundwater contains arsenic, chloride, iron, lead, manganese, and radon at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concerning concentrations that well owners should address with testing and treatment.

The Early Mesozoic basin rock beneath Henrico County naturally contains metals like iron, manganese, and arsenic. Radon comes from radioactive elements in the rock itself. Chloride and lead can also be released from the rock through water contact over time, and lead may enter from old pipes or plumbing materials in homes.

Groundwater in this county is soft but contains moderate iron, which gives the water its notable mineral character. Iron concentrates in the groundwater because the basin rock contains iron-rich minerals that dissolve slowly as water moves through the ground. This iron character is common across many wells throughout the county.

Wells in Henrico County have been found to contain arsenic, lead, radon, chloride, iron, and manganese at levels above EPA health standards. Arsenic and lead are serious concerns because they can build up in your body over time and cause damage to your brain, heart, and kidneys. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk when you breathe it in. Iron and manganese at high levels can affect your nervous system and cause other health problems.

Iron in county wells causes orange or brown staining on fixtures, laundry, and dishes. You may notice a metallic or bitter taste in your water. The iron can clog pipes and screens over time. The good news is that wells in this county are generally soft, so you will not deal with heavy scale buildup like some areas experience.

Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well. Every well is different, and your water could have higher or lower levels than what we see in the county overall. We recommend getting a comprehensive panel that checks for metals, minerals, bacteria, and radioactive elements, which typically costs $200 to $400. Water treatment options like reverse osmosis filters or activated carbon can address several of these concerns once you know your specific results.