Only an expert like Mid-MO Water Solutions can confirm well water contamination. However, there are a few signs that will help you identify a potential problem. Discover some common red flags that your well water is contaminated and steps you can take to improve your supply.
1. The Water Tastes Funky
Unless you add a powdered drink mix or liquid flavoring to your glass, your water shouldn’t have any discernible taste. Be mindful of the properties your taste buds identify when you take a sip. You can often tell which common well water contaminants are in your supply based on how your drink tastes.
Homeowners may experience the following aftertastes:
- Soapy flavor: It’s possible your supply has excessive amounts of alkaline minerals, including potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
- Metallic characteristics: The presence of heavy metals in your well water can wreak havoc on your digestive system.
- Saltiness: High levels of sodium or chloride can give your water an unwanted salty taste.
- Chemical tastes: Pesticide runoff could cause well water contamination and leave a foul chemical flavor on your tongue.
Notify a water testing company like Mid-MO Water Solutions of these changes in your supply. Professionals can confirm the pollutants and provide long-lasting solutions.
2. Your Water Supply Smells
You may be able to tell something’s amiss with your water supply before you even taste it. When it flows through the tap, is there a noticeable odor that takes you by surprise? Septic system leakage or another form of groundwater pollution could be the culprit.
Don’t hesitate to schedule a water quality test if your nose is met with strong chlorine, detergent, or rotten egg odors when you run the tap.
3. You Experience the Effects of Hard Water
People around the country deal with hard water, whether they receive their supply from a city sewer or a backyard well. You should be aware of the signs of hard water and contact an expert if you suspect well water contamination.
Excessive calcium, magnesium, and other hard minerals in your supply can lead to problems like:
- Scale buildup: Residue may appear on glassware, faucets, and shower heads.
- Increased soap use: Soap doesn’t lather well in hard water, so you may need to use more of it to clean dishes effectively.
- Dull, stiff clothes: Hard water affects your wardrobe by making garments come out of the wash looking dingy.
- Dry hair and skin: Your hair and skin can become dry and brittle when you bathe in hard water.
Installing a water softener can alleviate these issues and preserve your plumbing.
4. Stains Suddenly Appear in Your Sink
Toothpaste or food residue within your sink can be unsightly but not harmful. If you suddenly notice red or brown stains forming inside your sink after running the tap, it’s a telltale sign of well water contamination. These colors typically indicate dissolved iron in your water supply.
Green stains could also paint your plumbing fixtures due to various acids. Cleaning your sink won’t correct the issue. You have to address the underlying cause with the help of a local specialist.
5. The Liquid Looks Oily
Oil and water don’t go together, so why would a glass of water suddenly have a shiny film on the surface resembling oil? It’s likely due to iron-related bacterial contamination. Take swift action to correct this issue.
It’s possible that you have a worn-out well pump that’s due for replacement. Another potential cause of the contamination is building your well too close to an unsafe water source.
6. Your Supply Is Murky or Cloudy
One of the easiest ways to detect well water contamination is if your supply runs through the tap looking cloudy or discolored. You may not notice any changes when you’re washing dishes or showering. However, if you fill a glass, you should always see clear liquid.
Cloudy, murky water can stem from several contaminants, including:
- Rust
- Dirt
- Clay
The supply may also have visible pieces of sediment floating inside your glass. Don’t drink the liquid; instead, contact a professional to inspect your well.
Enhance Your Well Water Supply With Mid-MO Water Solutions
If you experience any of these signs of well water contamination, reach out to Mid-MO Water Solutions. We know how to prevent tap water pollutants, diagnose nitrate contamination, and much more. Let our skilled team inspect your well and take proven measures to improve your health and safety.
Contact our Jefferson City-based team at 573-636-3800 to schedule a free water quality test.