That said, there are a handful of common contaminants that can become an issue with a private water well. That's why it's so important to have the quality of your well water tested on a regular basis. Because you are the leading overseer of the well's maintenance, it is best to get familiar with these common well contaminants by understanding where they come from and how they should be handled.
Bacteria and Other Pathogenic Contaminants
Bacteria and pathogenic contaminants, such as E. coli, Shigella and Crypto, are worrisome because these contaminants can cause illness and disease when consumed. Bacteria and pathogens usually get into the water supply via exposure to contaminated groundwater with trace amounts of contaminated fecal matter. This can be caused by:
- Flooding in the well area
- Close proximity to livestock
- Leaking septic or sewer systems
When water passes through the soil, it can carry these dangerous pathogenic contaminants. These pathogens can then leak into your water well and eventually come into your home. If your well tests positive for bacteria or other pathogenic contaminants, it is important to find the source of the problem. Your well may have to be cleaned or even completely relocated if testing shows a consistent problem.
Fertilizers, Pesticides and Other Chemical Contaminants
Fertilizers and pesticides are common residential agents, and you may even use some of these compounds on your own property. If you have a water well, your use of any chemical fertilizer, pesticide or other chemical product should be carefully considered. These chemicals have been linked to a long list of health problems, including certain forms of cancer.
Not only will you have to be mindful of the chemicals you use on your property, you will also need to pay close attention to the well's proximity to farmland where these agents are widely used. If the groundwater flowing into your well is also traveling through cropland, it can pick up the chemicals and feed them into your private water supply. In these situations, a private well often has to be moved to a safer location.
Heavy Metal and Element Trace Contaminants
Some areas are rich in metallic and chemical elements, such as iron and lead. In higher levels, these components are not good for your home water supply. They can pose risks to your health and be especially threatening to small children, nursing mothers and pregnant women. Some of the most dangerous elements that you should carefully monitor include:
- Radon
- Boron
- Lead
- Arsenic
If you find high contamination levels of heavy metals and trace elements, you should seek professional advice about the quality of your water. In some cases, the problem can be remedied with filtration systems and component replacements. However, it is not uncommon for a water supply contractor to recommend moving the well to avoid prolonged issues.
The quality of the water in your well has a direct correlation with the health and well-being of your entire family. That's why it is so necessary to carefully monitor your water well for contaminants throughout the year. If you need expert advice on well placement, drilling a new well or water quality, contact the qualified water supply contractors at Ortman Drilling & Water Services.
