Residential Well Water Treatment in Florida

Groundwater, thanks to its protected underground location, is naturally clean and contains no contaminants. However, bacteria and other dangers can leech into groundwater and infiltrate residential water wells. These contaminants enter the water because of a variety of problems, such as poorly built wells, unmaintained septic systems or by poorly applied fertilizer. Twenty percent of Floridians rely on water sources other than city systems and residents are responsible for water well quality.

Contaminants

• The most likely contaminants of Florida well water are microbes and nitrate. This issue is a serious one, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that contaminated drinking water causes thousands of U.S. illnesses each year, including several deaths.

  Microbes such as bacteria aren't always harmful, but the mere presence of bacteria is an indicator that other types of more dangerous bacteria, viruses or parasites are probably present. Watch for diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. These are common symptoms experienced after drinking water contaminated by dangerous bacteria.

  The most at-risk to water contaminated by nitrates are infants. Nitrate reacts with hemoglobin in blood that causing an anemic condition called "blue baby syndrome."

  Make sure your well is in good shape. If you use a septic system, make sure it's properly maintained. Monitor any use of pesticides on your property or nearby areas as these applications could also leech into groundwater. Make sure any gasoline storage tanks have no leaks. Also, be aware of any issues with leakages from nearby landfills or disposal of toxic and hazardous wastes.

Testing

• If you depend on a private water well, the U.S. Department of Health recommends that you test at least once a year for contaminants. Routine water tests are an inexpensive and easy way to make sure your water supply is safe. Testing usually costs between $10 and $20 per sample. In some areas, county health department officials will come to your home to collect samples and, in some areas, may perform testing for free. Use a state-certified laboratory to test the samples. This will ensure that results are valid. Check with your county health department to see what other contaminants you may need to test for in your particular area.

  If your water is contaminated, you will need to disinfect your well, repair your water system or install treatment equipment. What steps you take will depend on the type of contaminate and its source. Your county health officials or workers with your testing firm can guide you on how to treat your water.

Fraud

• Avoid free home water tests offered by private companies. The Florida Attorney General's Office also recommends that you not swayed by salesman that test your water by adding chemicals that change its color. Claims of government approval are also not a reason to buy this equipment.