Well Water in Richmond County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Richmond County contains chloride, manganese, and iron at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants show up at moderate to concerning levels, with chloride and iron being the main issues well owners need to know about.

The source of these contaminants comes from the sandy and clay layers of the Atlantic Coastal Plain aquifer system in this region. Saltwater intrusion from the nearby coast pushes chloride into the groundwater, while iron and manganese occur naturally in the sediment layers where your water sits underground.

Groundwater in this county is moderately hard, with moderate iron being the main mineral that gives the water its character. The sandy and clay layers that make up the aquifer naturally contain iron-bearing minerals that dissolve into the water over time. Wells throughout Richmond County commonly show these same mineral features.

Wells in Richmond County show elevated levels of chloride, iron, manganese, and sulfate above EPA health standards. Chloride at high levels can be a concern for people with heart disease or high blood pressure because it adds extra salt to drinking water. Iron and manganese can cause problems with how your body uses oxygen and processes nutrients. Sulfate at elevated levels can cause digestive issues, especially in infants and people with certain health conditions.

The moderate iron levels common in county wells create orange or brown staining on fixtures, laundry, and dishes. Your water may have a metallic taste or smell. The moderately hard water can leave scale buildup inside pipes and water heaters, which can shorten the lifespan of appliances like dishwashers and water heaters over time.

We recommend testing your well with a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, which typically costs between $200 and $400. Every well is different, and your water may have higher or lower levels than what is common across the county. Testing is the only way to know exactly what is in your well so you can get the right treatment. Iron removal systems and water softeners can address these mineral concerns.