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Testing Well Water Quality - Identifying and Removing Harmful Contaminants in Tampa Bay, FL

Writer's picture: Eyal Gamili HoltzekerEyal Gamili Holtzeker

Updated: Oct 3, 2023


Well water quality can vary greatly depending on the geology and environment around the well. While well water may seem pure, it can contain harmful bacteria, chemicals, metals and other contaminants that can pose health risks if consumed over time. Regular testing and treatment is essential for safe well water.

Common Well Water Contaminants in Tampa Bay, FL

Some of the most common well water contaminants found in Tampa Bay, FL include:

Bacteria like E. coli, coliform bacteria, and iron bacteria are frequently found in Florida well water. Bacteria can cause gastrointestinal illness.

Nitrates

Nitrates are a common groundwater contaminant in agricultural areas from fertilizer runoff. High nitrate levels can cause blue baby syndrome in infants.

Arsenic is naturally occurring in Florida groundwater aquifers. Long-term ingestion of arsenic can increase cancer risk.

Radon is a radioactive gas that can dissolve into well water from underlying rock. Radon exposure through drinking water increases cancer risk over time.

Calcium, magnesium and other hardness mineral salts are abundant in Tampa's aquifers. Hard water causes scale buildup, dry skin, mineral spots, and reduces soap effectiveness.

Iron bacteria and high iron levels frequently occur in Florida well water, causing orange staining, metallic tastes and odors. Iron buildup in pipes can reduce water flow.

Manganese

Like iron, manganese bacteria and elevated manganese is common in parts of Florida. Manganese causes black staining and bitter metallic tastes.

Sulfur and Hydrogen Sulfide

Sulfur causes rotten egg odors in water and corrodes plumbing and fixtures.

Sodium

Some regions have high sodium levels that can negatively impact those on low-sodium diets.

Corrosive water can leach lead and copper from pipes, fittings or solder into well water. Lead causes neurological damage.

Testing Well Water

The EPA recommends testing well water annually for bacteria and nitrates, and every 3-5 years for inorganic contaminants like arsenic, radon, lead, and uranium.

Aqua-Wise Water Treatment Solutions offers complete well water testing including bacteria, metals, nitrates, TDS, hardness, iron, manganese, and other parameters. Their certified water specialists will come sample your well, analyze it, and provide a detailed contamination report. You can also pick up a DIY test kit.

Knowing your well water quality enables selection of the appropriate treatment solutions for the specific issues present.

Water Treatment Solutions for Tampa Bay Well Water

The good news is that most well water contaminants can be reduced or removed with the proper treatment systems:

Bacteria Removal

Bacteria is best eliminated with disinfection using a chlorine injection system, ozone generator, or UV light sterilizer.

Removing Arsenic, Metals and Nitrates

Specialized filtration media is required to reduce arsenic, heavy metals like lead, iron, manganese, etc. Reverse osmosis or anion resin effectively removes metals and nitrates.

Eliminating Hardness and Minerals

Hardness causing calcium and magnesium is removed using a water softener. Multi-stage filtration like reverse osmosis also reduces TDS and mineral hardness.

Removing Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfur Odors

Sulfur odors are removed by chlorination, ozone injection, or activated carbon filtration like an iron filter.

Neutralizing Radon

Radon is removed by aeration using a radon degasifier.

Sediment Pre-Filtration

Sediment filters or micron cartridge filters placed before treatment equipment preserve system longevity.

Whole house systems that combine multiple treatment methods in one can effectively address a broad range of contaminants for safe, clean drinking water from every tap.

Financing Options for Well Water Treatment Systems

Aqua-Wise offers flexible financing plans to make water treatment affordable including 12 months same as cash financing. Water treatment costs can also be bundled into your mortgage.

Get Your Well Water Tested Today!

Don't drink contaminated water! Schedule your free Tampa Bay well water test today by calling 727-236-7161 or filling out our online form. A water specialist will come test your well and recommend the right treatment for the issues detected. Clean, filtered well water contributes to better health.

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WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US

  • What is hard water?
    Answer: Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium.
  • What are the signs of hard water in Florida?
    Answer: Signs of hard water in Florida include white or yellowish buildup on faucets and appliances, soap scum in sinks and showers, and dry, itchy skin.
  • How does a water softener work?
    Answer: A water softener works by removing the minerals that cause water hardness and replacing them with sodium ions through a process called ion exchange.
  • How often should I add salt to my water softener?
    Answer: You should add salt to your water softener tank as needed, typically every 4-6 weeks, depending on your household water usage.
  • Is softened water safe to drink?
    Answer: Yes, softened water is safe to drink. However, if you have concerns about the sodium content, you may want to consider installing a reverse osmosis drinking water system.
  • What are the benefits of using a water softener in Florida?
    Answer: Benefits of using a water softener in Florida include softer, smoother skin, cleaner dishes and clothes, longer lifespan for appliances and plumbing, and reduced buildup on fixtures and surfaces.
  • How do I know if I need a water softener in Florida?
    Answer: If you notice signs of hard water, such as buildup on fixtures or appliances, soap scum, or dry skin, you may benefit from a water softener. You can also have your water tested to determine its hardness level.
  • Can I install a water softener myself?
    Answer: While it is possible to install a water softener yourself, it is recommended that you hire a professional to ensure proper installation and performance.
  • How much does a water softener cost in Florida?
    Answer: The cost of a water softener in Florida varies depending on the size and type of system, as well as installation and maintenance costs. On average, a basic system can range from $500 to $5,000.
  • How often should I have my water softener serviced in Florida?
    Answer: You should have your water softener serviced annually to ensure it is functioning properly and to maintain optimal performance.
  • What is reverse osmosis and how does it work?
    Reverse osmosis is a water purification process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. Water is forced through the membrane, which traps pollutants and allows clean water to pass through.
  • What types of contaminants can reverse osmosis systems remove?
    Reverse osmosis systems can remove a wide range of contaminants, including chlorine, fluoride, lead, arsenic, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful particles.
  • Do I need a reverse osmosis system if I already have a water softener?
    A water softener and a reverse osmosis system serve different purposes. While a water softener removes hard minerals like calcium and magnesium, a reverse osmosis system removes a wider range of contaminants.
  • Is reverse osmosis water safe to drink?
    Yes, reverse osmosis water is safe to drink. In fact, many people prefer the taste of reverse osmosis water over tap water due to its purity and lack of chemicals.
  • Do I need to replace the reverse osmosis membrane over time?
    Yes, the reverse osmosis membrane will need to be replaced periodically to ensure optimal performance of the system.
  • How often should I change the filters in my reverse osmosis system?
    It is recommended to change the filters in your reverse osmosis system every 6-12 months, depending on usage and water quality.
  • Can a reverse osmosis system be installed under my sink?
    Yes, most reverse osmosis systems are designed to fit under the sink for easy installation and convenience.
  • How much water does a reverse osmosis system waste?
    Reverse osmosis systems typically waste about 3-5 gallons of water for every gallon of purified water produced, but some systems are designed to be more efficient.
  • Will a reverse osmosis system remove beneficial minerals from my water?
    Yes, a reverse osmosis system will remove some beneficial minerals from your water along with the contaminants. However, these minerals can be easily replenished through a healthy diet or supplements.
  • Can I install a reverse osmosis system myself or should I hire a professional?
    While it is possible to install a reverse osmosis system yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional to ensure proper installation and optimal performance of the system.

Reviews from our amazing customers

Alexandra O

average rating is 5 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Product ratings

Tampa, FL

I recently had Aqua-Wise Water Treatment install a 96k grains water softener, carbon, and RO system in my home in Tampa. Living in an area with various contaminants, including PFAS, I was in search of a comprehensive water treatment solution, and Aqua-Wise delivered. The 96k grains water softener effectively addresses hard water issues, ensuring a noticeable improvement in water quality. The addition of a carbon filtration system enhances the removal of impurities, and the RO system provides an extra layer of purification, crucial for combating contaminants like PFAS.I can already feel the positive impact on both my appliances and overall well-being. Choosing Aqua-Wise Water Treatment has proven to be a wise decision, providing my family with clean, softened water that exceeds our expectations. I highly recommend their services to anyone in the Tampa area seeking a reliable and thorough water treatment solution.

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Mark H

average rating is 5 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Product ratings

Pinellas Park, FL

I'm delighted to share my positive experience with Aqua-Wise.com. Their installation services for our point of entry and RO system were exceptional. The team exhibited professionalism and efficiency throughout the process. Additionally, opting for their financial option at just $69 made the entire service even more accessible for my family. We're thoroughly satisfied with the results and highly recommend Aqua-Wise for their quality work and flexible payment plans.

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Julia A

average rating is 5 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Product ratings

Saint Petersburg, FL

Comments: I am so glad that I chose Aqua Wise for our water softener and RO installation. It was ultimately a decision for our health, but it's a big purchase and we wanted to make sure we were in good hands. Eyal explained everything every step of the way. You can tell he is very knowledgeable and passionate about water quality. He and his son came out quickly and the installation was seamless. We needed an electrician as well to come out and install a power supply, which Eyal also arranged for. They offer financing options as well, and they are reasonably priced in my opinion. I highly recommend Aqua Wise for your home's water needs, and supporting a local family owned business. Thank you Aqua Wise!

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