Homeowners should schedule annual well inspections to ensure their water is safe to drink. Every area has different contaminant risks, such as bacteria, viruses, and pollutants. Here are three materials to test for in Wisconsin.

What Contaminants Do Well Inspections Search for in Wisconsin?

1. Nitrates

Farming operations span much of the Midwest. When agricultural processes use nitrogen-based fertilizers, the nitrogen and oxygen mix may seep into groundwater that supplies a well.

All wells drilled since 2014 have received water tests upon installation to ensure the levels of nitrate are below 10 parts per million. Higher amounts may lead to blue baby syndrome in infants and negatively impact the body’s ability to transport oxygen through the bloodstream. 

2. Arsenic

Rocks and soil often have naturally occurring arsenic, an element from the Earth’s crust that can enter groundwater. Organic arsenic may contaminate the well if the casing is not intact, and inorganic arsenic from tobacco, mining, and pesticides can leech into wells through runoff.

Since this element is odor- and taste-free, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources recommends getting annual well inspections and sampling. Arsenic poisoning can increase the risk of lung, liver, bladder, and colon cancers as well as irritate the skin and digestive system. 

3. Copper

Copper occurs naturally in rocks, dirt, water, and air. In Wisconsin, its levels in groundwater are usually around four micrograms per liter. If your home has corroded copper piping, the water that comes out of your faucets may have much higher levels that could make the supply unsafe to drink.

People who ingest more than 1100 micrograms of copper per day might experience nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. Exposure to high amounts of the metal for more than 14 consecutive days may cause liver or kidney problems. During a well inspection, a professional will test the supply from your well system and plumbing to determine the source of the elevated copper levels.

If you live in La Crosse County, WI, contact Affordable Pump & Well Repair for annual well inspections to ensure your supply is always safe. These water experts have more than 45 years of experience offering residential well system management. If a water test shows well contamination, they also provide system repair to restore the functionality of your unit. Call (608) 788-6451 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for information on their maintenance services.