Well Water in Sheboygan County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Sheboygan County contains chloride, lead, and sulfate at levels that exceed EPA health standards, along with naturally occurring sulfate. These contaminant levels are concerning enough that well owners should be aware of them and consider testing.

Chloride enters the groundwater from road salt applied during winter and from natural sources deep underground. Lead can dissolve into water from pipes and fixtures in older homes, though some may come from natural rock. Sulfate occurs naturally in the rock layers beneath the county that supply drinking water to private wells.

Groundwater in Sheboygan County is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium that dissolve from the limestone and dolomite rock below. As water moves slowly through these rock layers over many years, it picks up these minerals and holds onto them. Very hard water is common across wells throughout the county, with most wells showing similarly high hardness levels.

Chloride, lead, PFHXS, and sulfate exceed EPA health standards in wells across Sheboygan County. Lead is a toxic metal that builds up in the body over time and can damage the brain and nervous system, especially in children. Chloride at elevated levels can increase blood pressure in some people. PFHXS is a "forever chemical" linked to health problems including liver damage and immune system effects. Sulfate can cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals.

Wells in this county have very hard water, which means mineral scale builds up on pipes, faucets, and inside appliances like water heaters and dishwashers, shortening their lifespan. Hard water also makes soap less effective, leaving clothes stiff and laundry harder to clean. You may notice white, crusty deposits on fixtures and a chalky feeling on your skin.

We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel to find out what is actually in your well, since every well is different and your water could have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what needs treatment. A comprehensive panel typically costs $200-400. Depending on your results, treatment options like water softeners or lead filtration systems can address these concerns.