Private water wells in Missouri make up more than 17% of the state's water supply, and it’s up to a well owners to safeguard the water in their wells. Because well water may become contaminated by natural processes or human error, annual well inspections are vital. Here are some of the contaminants that may make well water unsafe to drink.

A Brief Guide to Well Water Contaminants

1. Microorganisms

When Bacteria, parasites, and viruses in well water are consumed by humans, they can cause infections, headaches, and gastrointestinal illness. Coliform and E. coli are two examples of harmful bacteria sometimes found in water supplies. Regardless of the type of microorganism present, a water well services specialist should be commissioned to disinfect your well with biocides or other techniques.

2. Iron & Rust

Iron and corroded metal can leak into well water if pipes are rusty, if sewer lines have leaks, or if natural minerals in the soil contaminate it. Sometimes, runoff from precipitation may pollute well water with iron and rust. Trace amounts of heavy metals in well water do not represent an urgent health concern, but in excess, they can be particularly damaging to the liver and kidneys. A water well company can test your water to determine which heavy metals are present and apply a water treatment or filter to remove them. 

3. Nitrate

Nitrate is a chemical commonly found in fertilizers and waste from septic tanks. It can leak into your water supply if rain or sprinklers push it through the soil into the groundwater. High levels of nitrate in drinking water, which can cause harm to the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, is especially dangerous for babies, the elderly, and pregnant women. A well drilling contractor can conduct a well inspection, test your water to determine if nitrate is present at high levels, and apply a water treatment to get rid of it.

If you need a well inspection performed by an experienced technician, call B & H Well Drilling Pump Service in Jefferson City, MO. For more than 35 years, this locally owned water well services company has specialized in the installation, repair, and maintenance of water wells. Their technicians are fully insured and licensed, and all equipment is up-to-date. Call (573) 455-9111 to ask for a free estimate, or visit them online to learn more about their services.