Well Water in Patrick County: What to Test and Why

Iron, arsenic, and chloride are present in Patrick County groundwater. Iron is the only contaminant reaching levels that exceed EPA health standards, making it a concern for well owners in this area.

Iron comes from minerals naturally present in the crystalline rock that makes up the county's aquifers. As water moves slowly through these ancient rocks, it dissolves iron and carries it into wells. Arsenic and chloride also occur naturally in this rock type and enter groundwater through the same process.

Groundwater in Patrick County is soft, with very low iron, sodium, and sulfate. The crystalline rock here does not contain the calcium and magnesium minerals that make water hard, so most wells produce water with minimal mineral content. This soft-water character is consistent across the county's wells.

Wells in Patrick County show iron at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Drinking water with elevated iron can cause problems in your body over time, including damage to your organs and tissues. Children and people with certain health conditions face higher risks from iron exposure.

The good news is that Patrick County's groundwater is soft, with low levels of sodium, sulfate, and other minerals. This means you won't see much scale buildup in your pipes or appliances, and your water heater should last longer than in harder water areas. The water should taste clean and not have unpleasant odors from mineral content.

Every well is different, and your well may have higher or lower iron levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so it can be treated properly. We recommend a comprehensive water test to check iron and other metals. Iron can be removed through filtration or oxidation systems.