In the United States, roughly 15% of the population gets water from private wells. They’re commonly installed on rural properties where municipal water isn’t available. Private wells offer independence and direct access to naturally sourced water, but they also come with some major responsibilities. Unlike city water systems, private wells are not regulated, which means homeowners are solely responsible for maintaining water quality. Private wells draw from groundwater, which can be vulnerable to contamination from natural and man-made sources. Groundwater pollution is a critical concern that could potentially lead to severe health risks. Homeowners must know possible contamination risks, types of underground water contamination, and how to keep their wells safe from hazards and impurities.
What Is Underground Water Pollution?
Groundwater pollution occurs when underground sources become contaminated with pollutants, either naturally or through human activities like agricultural activities, industrial processes, or even waste. Contaminants may range from minerals and sediment to hazardous chemicals and microbes. Some common sources of groundwater pollution include runoff and seepage from:
- Agricultural fertilizers, pesticides, animal waste, and irrigation practices
- Industrial factories, refineries, mining sites, and foundries that produce heavy metals or chemical waste
- Commercial gas stations, airports, junkyards, dry cleaners, and car washes
- Residential septic systems, lawn fertilizers, fuel storage, and household chemicals
- Other sources like landfills, stormwater drains, abandoned or poorly maintained wells, and road de-icing agents
Maintaining and treating private well water through routine testing and filtration is necessary to ensure the water flowing through your home is safe to use and consume.
Types of Groundwater Contaminants
Private wells can be exposed to a variety of contaminants from diverse sources. The severity of these contaminants also varies widely, as some impurities bear no harmful effects while others could drastically impact human health.
Sediment
Sediment enters private wells through erosion, construction, and runoff. While the sand, silt, and dirt particles don’t pose health risks, they can clog plumbing fixtures and reduce water clarity.
Hard Water Minerals
Naturally occurring hard water minerals like calcium and magnesium dissolve in groundwater as they flow through aquifers. Though these minerals offer key nutritional benefits, high concentrations cause damaging scale buildup and dry out hair and skin.
Sulfur
Sulfur compounds are naturally present in some aquifers, but decaying plant matter and some bacteria can also introduce sulfur into private wells. This contaminant doesn’t pose health concerns but it does cause a rotten egg odor and unpleasant taste in water.
Microorganisms
Bacteria, viruses, and parasites can enter private wells from animal waste runoff or septic system leaks. These pathogens may cause gastrointestinal distress and illness.
Nitrates and Nitrites
Chemical fertilizers, animal waste, and human sewage are the main causes of nitrates in water. When ingested, nitrates turn into nitrites, which can potentially cause “blue baby syndrome” in infants by reducing oxygen levels in the blood.
Heavy Metals
Lead, mercury, arsenic, and other dangerous heavy metals can enter private wells through anything from household plumbing to industrial activities. Long-term exposure to heavy metals can lead to serious health concerns like liver, kidney, and neurological damage. The risk of cancer is also increased.
Radionuclides
Radioactive elements like uranium and radium are often the result of nuclear activities, though they may occur naturally in some groundwater sources. Exposure to these elements increases the risk of cancer and may have toxic effects on organs like the kidneys.
Pesticides and Herbicides
After application, these chemicals can migrate into groundwater supplies. Over time, exposure can lead to hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and a higher chance of cancer.
Fluoride
While fluoride is added to city water supplies to support dental health, this compound is also found naturally in some aquifers. Excessive levels can cause dental fluorosis, which is the discoloration and pitting of teeth.
Why Regular Private Well Testing Is Essential
According to the National Water-Quality Assessment (NAWQA) Program of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), a study of about 2,100 private wells across 48 states found more than one in five wells contained one or more contaminants exceeding safety standards. Furthermore, roughly half of well samples had at least one contaminant with measured concentrations above recommended levels.
The only way to find out what impurities are present in your groundwater is to test it. Samples should be collected before using your well water for the first time and continue annually or after any nearby environmental incidents.
Read Our Complete Guide to At-Home Water Quality Testing
Preventive Steps for Protecting Well Water
While you cannot control all external contamination sources, you can take steps to reduce well water risks. First, place wells at a safe distance from potential pollution sources like septic systems, livestock areas, or chemical storage areas. After installing your well, conduct routine inspections for cracks, corrosion, or missing well caps. You should also keep a record of all water tests you’ve conducted and verified through a certified laboratory. Depending on test results, you may also need to invest in a well water filtration system to reduce contaminant levels.
Kind Water offers tests and purification systems designed specifically for private well customers. Our experts can help you purchase a system that meets your home’s exact needs and keeps your family safe.
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