Common Well Water Contaminants

By now, you’ve more than likely come across news regarding water quality concerns throughout the nation; it may even be an issue in your city. Whether it's lead contamination in Flint, Michigan, or a similar situation caused by aging infrastructure in Newark, New Jersey, these issues raise serious concerns for homeowners. Homeowners may also hear about fluoride in city water to bacteria in private wells. These private wells can be contaminated by naturally occurring sources and by human activity. Here, our team goes over five common contaminants that can be found in well water.

For expert testing and water treatment, contact the professionals at North Florida Water Systems Inc. Schedule an appointment today for quick and efficient water treatment services.

Microorganisms

Microorganisms typically refers to bacteria, viruses, and parasites, all of which can be found all across the world, in human sewage, and in animal waste. Private wells can become contaminated with microorganisms from water run-off from rainfall and these waters can push microorganisms into the well system or seep into groundwater. Another way for these contaminants to get into water can be from underground storage tanks, which can leak waste from septic leach fields.

Common contaminants, such as e. Coli bacteria can cause severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. Some people have even experienced a low-grade fever. Many people who consume drinking water with these microorganisms may also experience gastrointestinal illnesses and infections. If you suspect dangerous microorganisms are present in your water, get in touch with our water treatment company as soon as possible.

Heavy Metals

Heavy metals include arsenic, lead, copper, and more. Corroded plumbing lines and runoff from mining operations, manufacturing, and industrial operations can lead to heavy metals in drinking water. If the plumbing inside the house that the well serves hasn't been updated, lead and copper pollution can occur. If this drinking water is consumed, it can lead to serious illness, as well as liver, kidney, and intestinal damage, anemia, and possibly even cancer. To help prevent heavy metals from your home’s water, we recommend installing a water filtration system.

Nitrate & Nitrite

Nitrate and nitrite come from chemical fertilizers, human sewage, and animal waste and fertilizers. Much like microorganisms, nitrate can contaminate a private well through groundwater movement and water run-off. Nitrate turns into nitrite after it has been ingested and high levels of these in drinking water can cause methemoglobinemia, which reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. If you start experiencing frequent headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, or other sudden symptoms, first seek medical attention and then contact us for a comprehensive water treatment.

Fluoride

Present in many aquifers and private wells, Fluoride can help with preventing tooth decay, but too much fluoride in the water can be a bad thing. Ingesting an excessive amount of fluoride can cause a condition called skeletal fluorosis, which causes pain and tenderness of bones and joints. If teeth are still forming, fluoride can also cause discoloration and pitting of teeth.

Organic Chemicals

Found in many household products, organic chemicals can enter groundwater and contaminate private wells through waste disposal, spills, and surface water run-off. These can cause damage to the kidneys, liver, circulatory system, nervous system, and reproductive system if you consume high amounts of them.

For more information about what’s in your water, contact North Florida Water Systems Inc for water testing and treatment solutions.