Many Americans rely on residential well water for their home water supply. While private wells are an economical way for individuals to obtain their water, they don't receive the same water testing and treatments found in the public water supply. This makes them vulnerable to contamination when their wells are not properly serviced. To keep your well water safe, learn how to identify common signs of well contamination in the guide below.

How to Spot Well Water Contamination

1. Unpleasant Smell

If your well water smells like sulfur or rotten eggs, it commonly indicates the presence of hydrogen sulfide. This is a gas that naturally occurs as a result of decay and chemical reactions within the soil.

An excess of hydrogen sulfide can cause the growth of sulfur and iron bacteria, leading to bacterial slime buildup that can clog wells, plumbing, and irrigation systems. In some instances, the gas may be coming from sewage or other pollutants, so make sure you regularly conduct water testing.

2. Strange Flavors

Contaminates in your well supply can affect the water’s flavor, creating a metallic taste with the presence of iron, manganese, or high acidity. In some cases, your well water may taste salty, which can indicate higher than normal levels of sodium in the water supply. Pesticides and industrial substances can also leech into your water supply through the groundwater, causing your water to taste like chemicals.

3. Murky or Off-Color Appearance

Murky or discolored water is also a sign that your water has been contaminated. Reddish-brown water can indicate excessive amounts of iron or manganese in your well, while a blue or greenish hue may be caused by corrosion in your pipes. Cloudy well water is caused by large amounts of dirt, rust, silt, or other residues in your system. If your water appears milky or foamy, it may have been exposed to clay, cleaning agents, or high levels of methane gas.

If your well water has been contaminated, contact the professionals at Hartmann Well Drilling & Service in New Prague, MN for water testing and servicing. With 90 years of experience in well drilling, servicing, and repairs, their skilled team will work with you to identify and remove possible sources of contamination. Contact them today at (952) 758-2202, or visit them online to learn more about their services.