Private Well Water Treatment Solutions for New Hampshire Homeowners
More than 40% of New Hampshire homes rely on private wells for their drinking water. While well water offers independence from municipal systems, it also brings unique challenges. Without government oversight, the responsibility for ensuring water quality falls entirely on the homeowner. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the potential contaminants lurking in their well water until noticeable damage occurs or health concerns arise. That is why private well water treatment solutions are essential for any homeowner who wants safe, clean, and reliable water throughout their household.
At Advanced Radon Mitigation & Water Treatment, we specialize in designing and installing customized systems to solve the water quality challenges specific to New Hampshire's geology. This blog will explore the most common issues found in well water, how to identify them, and what treatment systems can protect your home and health.
Why Private Wells Require Specialized Water Treatment
Unlike city water, which is treated and tested regularly to meet federal standards, private well water is untreated and unregulated. It may look clear and taste fine but still contain harmful substances. These can be naturally occurring, such as uranium and arsenic, or man-made, like PFOA from industrial pollution.
New Hampshire’s unique granite-rich bedrock contributes to many of these issues. Additionally, high rainfall and surface water runoff can introduce bacteria and chemicals into shallow wells.
Key reasons to treat your well water:
- Ensure health and safety
- Protect plumbing and appliances
- Remove unwanted taste, odor, or color
- Prevent long-term damage from corrosive or hard water
- Maintain resale value and meet buyer expectations
Common Contaminants in New Hampshire Well Water
Below are some of the most frequently detected contaminants and their potential health risks or home impacts.
1. Radon in Water
Radon is a radioactive gas that dissolves into groundwater. While it is more commonly known as an airborne threat, radon in water becomes airborne during showering, dishwashing, and laundry. It poses a risk of lung and stomach cancer when inhaled or ingested.
2. Arsenic
Naturally present in granite bedrock, arsenic is a known carcinogen. It is tasteless, odorless, and cannot be removed by standard filters. The EPA does not regulate arsenic in private wells, so regular testing is critical.
3. Iron and Manganese
These minerals are not typically hazardous to health but cause staining, unpleasant taste, and can clog pipes and damage appliances over time.
4. Uranium
Another naturally occurring radioactive element, uranium, is linked to kidney damage. It is found in some parts of New Hampshire and should not be overlooked.
5. PFOA and PFOS (PFAS)
Known as "forever chemicals," PFAS compounds are man-made substances linked to cancer, immune suppression, and thyroid issues. They are extremely persistent in groundwater and are a growing concern throughout the state.
6. Hard Water
While not dangerous, hard water causes scale buildup, reduces soap efficiency, and shortens the lifespan of appliances and water heaters.
7. Acidic Water (Low pH)
Low pH water corrodes copper plumbing and can cause metals to leach into drinking water. This often results in blue-green stains and a metallic taste.
8. Bacteria and Coliform
These can indicate contamination from surface runoff, failing septic systems, or animals near the wellhead. Boiling water may help temporarily, but permanent solutions are needed.
What Are Private Well Water Treatment Solutions?
Private well water treatment solutions refer to systems designed to address specific water quality issues present in groundwater. These are installed at the point of entry (whole house) or point of use (single faucet), depending on the severity and type of contaminants.
At Advanced Radon Mitigation & Water Treatment, we build tailored systems to address your unique needs. We recommend starting with certified laboratory testing, followed by professional system selection and installation.
Types of Well Water Treatment Solutions
1. Radon Aeration Systems
Radon in water is best removed using an aeration system. These systems inject air into a sealed tank to separate radon from water. The gas is then safely vented outside the home.
Why aeration is best:
- Safely removes up to 99% of radon
- Does not require chemical additives
- Long-lasting and low-maintenance
Note: GAC (Granular Activated Carbon) filters are not recommended for radon levels above 5,000 pCi/L due to radioactive buildup concerns.
2. Arsenic Removal Systems
We use specialty adsorptive media that bind arsenic molecules as water flows through the tank. These systems are highly effective and can be paired with sediment filters to extend media life.
Benefits:
- Targets both arsenic types (As-III and As-V)
- Doesn’t affect the water taste
- Long service life with periodic media replacement
3. PFAS (PFOA/PFOS) Removal
PFOA removal water purification systems typically use granular activated carbon (GAC) or high-performance reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. These systems are especially important in towns near industrial or firefighting foam usage sites.
Best practices:
- Replace GAC tanks every 2 to 4 years, depending on usage and test results
- RO filters require 6–12 month carbon changes and membrane replacement every 2-3 years
4. Uranium Treatment Systems
These systems rely on ion exchange resins that selectively remove uranium ions. Proper pre-filtration is critical to prevent media fouling.
System Features:
- Effective for radioactive and heavy metals
- Includes bypass valves and easy servicing
- Works best with neutral pH water
5. Water Softeners
Softening systems remove calcium and magnesium using ion exchange. This protects appliances, improves lather, and reduces spotting on dishes.
Added benefits:
- Extends the life of plumbing and water heaters
- Reduces soap and detergent use
- Makes cleaning easier
6. pH Neutralizers
These systems increase low pH water levels to prevent corrosion. Using media like calcite or a blend with magnesium oxide, they raise the pH to 6.8–7.5.
Key facts:
- Must be refilled periodically
- Best for homes with copper or metal plumbing
- Helps prevent lead and copper leaching
7. Iron and Manganese Filters
Backwashing filters with oxidizing media such as Birm or manganese dioxide remove iron and manganese before they reach your fixtures.
Advantages:
- Eliminates staining
- Reduces metallic taste
- Lowers maintenance on appliances
8. UV Disinfection Systems
These use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Ideal for wells exposed to surface water or near septic systems.
Why UV?
- Chemical-free disinfection
- Safe for all household members
- Easy to maintain with annual bulb changes
Customizing Your Treatment Plan
Every well is different. We never recommend installing treatment systems without proper testing and planning. Our process includes:
- Third-party laboratory water testing
- Review of contaminant levels and EPA/State guidelines
- System design based on your water chemistry and flow rate
- Professional installation by certified technicians
- Optional service plans and reminders for filter replacement
Signs You May Need Water Treatment
- Rust stains in sinks or tubs
- Rotten-egg or metallic odors
- Cloudy or discolored water
- Blue-green stains from copper pipes
- Skin irritation or dry hair
- Soap not lathering properly
- Stains on laundry
- Water tests showing elevated contaminant levels
FAQs About Private Well Water Treatment
Q: How often should I test my well water?
We recommend testing at least once a year for bacteria and every three to five years for other contaminants, or whenever you notice changes in taste, smell, or appearance.
Q: Do you perform water testing?
No, to avoid any conflict of interest, we refer customers to certified independent laboratories. We can help interpret results and recommend solutions based on those reports.
Q: Can I install a system myself?
Whole-house systems require knowledge of plumbing, flow rates, and local codes. Professional installation ensures safety, performance, and longevity.
Q: Will treatment systems affect water pressure?
Not when sized correctly. We match the system to your home’s water usage and flow needs to avoid pressure drops.
Q: Are these systems noisy or difficult to maintain?
No. Most systems operate quietly in the background and require only routine filter or media changes. We offer service plans to make maintenance easy.
Q: Do you offer financing?
Not at this time. We have not yet partnered with a financing provider but are happy to offer transparent pricing and customized quotes.
Take Control of Your Water Quality Today
You should not have to worry about what is coming out of your tap. Whether you are dealing with radon, arsenic, iron, PFOA, uranium, or acidic water, we are here to help. Our private well water treatment solutions are customized for the unique challenges of New Hampshire wells, and our goal is to deliver long-term peace of mind.
Call Advanced Radon Mitigation & Water Treatment at (603) 644-1207 or visit our website to schedule a system consultation. Let us help you make your water clean, safe, and dependable—every day, at every tap.