Well Water in Middlesex County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Middlesex County contains iron, manganese, arsenic, radon, lead, chloride, and sulfate. Several of these contaminants exceed EPA health standards, which means they need your attention.

These contaminants come from the rock and sediment layers beneath the county. The aquifer here is made of mixed sand, clay, and gravel that naturally contains iron and manganese. Saltwater can seep into groundwater near coastal areas, raising chloride levels. Arsenic and radon occur naturally in the rock itself.

Groundwater in this county is notable for very high sodium and moderate iron. The sandy and clay layers that make up the aquifer here release sodium into the water as it flows underground, and iron from the rock adds to the water's character. These mineral levels are widespread across wells throughout the county.

Arsenic, radon, lead, chloride, and sulfate have been found at levels above EPA health standards in wells throughout Middlesex County. Arsenic exposure over time can damage your kidneys and increase cancer risk. Radon is a radioactive gas that builds up in homes and raises lung cancer risk. Lead harms children's brain development and learning, and damages adults' kidneys and blood pressure. Chloride and sulfate at high levels can affect people with heart or kidney problems.

Wells in this county often have very high sodium levels, which can affect the taste of your water and concern people on salt-restricted diets. Iron and manganese in county water can stain sinks, toilets, and laundry with orange or brown marks. These minerals can also give water an unpleasant taste or metallic smell. The good news is that your county has softer water overall, so scale buildup on pipes and appliances is less of a concern.

We recommend testing your well with a comprehensive panel right away, since multiple contaminants exceed health standards in this county. Remember that your well is unique--it may have higher or lower levels than what is common here. Testing is the only way to know exactly what is in your water so you can treat it properly. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars, and treatment options like activated carbon filters or water softeners can address multiple concerns at once.