Well Water in Stafford County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Stafford County contains arsenic, iron, manganese, and PFOS at levels above EPA health standards. Sulfate also exceeds EPA standards, and these contaminants represent a real concern for well owners who rely on private supplies.

The bedrock and sediment layers beneath Stafford County naturally contain iron and manganese, which dissolve into groundwater as it moves through the ground. Arsenic occurs naturally in these same rocks. PFOS contamination likely comes from industrial or military activities and spreads through the groundwater over time. Sulfate levels reflect the mineral composition of the aquifer itself.

Groundwater in Stafford County is moderately hard, driven by moderate iron content and dissolved minerals from the local rock layers. Iron concentration is moderate across the county's wells, and hardness is fairly consistent from well to well based on available data.

Wells in Stafford County commonly contain arsenic, iron, manganese, and PFOS at levels above EPA health standards. Arsenic builds up in your body over time and increases the risk of cancer and heart disease. Iron and manganese can affect how your organs work and cause problems with your nervous system. PFOS is a chemical that builds up in blood and can harm your immune system and liver.

The moderate iron levels in county wells create reddish or brown stains on sinks, tubs, and laundry. You may notice a metallic taste in your water or dark particles in your glass. The water can be hard enough to leave scale on fixtures and reduce the life of water heaters and dishwashers.

We recommend getting your well tested right away. Every well is different, and your water could have higher or lower levels than what is common here. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel costs between $200 and $400 and is the only way to know exactly what is in your well so you can treat it properly. Reverse osmosis filters and activated carbon treatment can remove many of these contaminants.