Well Water in Henry County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Henry County contains arsenic, chloride, and e. coli bacteria that well owners should know about. Contaminant levels here are low and do not exceed EPA health standards.

These contaminants come from the Early Mesozoic basin rock beneath the county and from bacteria that can seep in through cracks or poor well construction. The basin rock naturally contains arsenic and chloride that dissolve slowly into groundwater as water moves through it over time. Bacterial contamination enters from surface sources near wells.

Groundwater in this county is moderately hard, driven by calcium and magnesium from the rock layers below. The Early Mesozoic basin here contains minerals that dissolve into water as it flows underground. Most wells in the county show this moderate hardness character.

Wells in Henry County show some concerns below EPA health standards, but arsenic, chloride, and bacteria from fecal matter do turn up in county groundwater. Arsenic can damage your kidneys and other organs over time. Chloride at elevated levels can affect people with heart or kidney problems. Bacteria from fecal matter means germs that cause illness got into the water.

The mineral content in county wells creates moderate hardness. This means you may notice some scale buildup on faucets and in pipes, and it can reduce how long water heaters and dishwashers last. The sodium and sulfate levels are quite low, so you won't have salty-tasting water or strong odors.

Since three different concerns show up in county wells, we recommend a comprehensive water test to see what is actually in your well. Your individual well could have much higher or lower levels than the county average. Testing is the only way to know what needs treatment. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs between $200 and $400. Depending on what testing shows, treatment options range from simple filtration to aeration systems.