In Bedford, New Hampshire, residents and businesses typically rely on private and town or community well water. Common contaminants include PFAS and arsenic, although radon, iron, manganese, and other impurities may also be found.
Well Water Concerns in Bedford
Residents and businesses relying on well water often have at least one contaminant in their water. Visual signs of contaminants are often the least worrisome as most health-concerning contaminants are not detectible by the human eye. The only way to know for sure about what is in your well water is through regular testing. Water contaminants PFAS, arsenic, and radon are most frequently found in Bedford, New Hampshire, well water.
Bedford residents and business owners should be aware that PFAS detections are unfortunately on the rise, and that arsenic and radon are very commonly found in New Hampshire well water.
Bedford Town Water Quality Overview
Bedford has very few options for municipal water, which adheres to rigorous state and federal standards. Municipal water Must meet regulatory standards, but the last published report by Pennichuck shows that it contains some levels of PFAS, chloride, fluoride and other contaminants. Even residents on municipal water often choose to enhance their water quality by adding a drinking water system for purification peace of mind.
PFAS Presence in Bedford Water
Unfortunately PFAS is a notable and growing concern in New Hampshire’s water sources, and is especially a concern in Bedford due to its proximity to Merrimack, New Hampshire. The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services provides a sampling map displaying PFAS detections throughout the state. Those looking to mitigate the risk of PFAS in their drinking water often opt for specialized filtration systems, even on town water. Note that Bedford has a considerable number of PFAS contaminated wells.
Arsenic in Bedford Water
Arsenic, a health concern identified by the Environmental Protection Agency, is estimated to exceed New Hampshire’s standard of 5.0 parts per billion in approximately 25-30% of private wells. Long-term exposure to arsenic has been linked to a number of health issues. Private well users in New Hampshire face a 1 in 4 chance of their well water exceeding recommended arsenic levels. Arsenic treatment can be implemented for the whole home or to simply treat drinking water.
Addressing Hard Water Challenges
Hard water, characterized by elevated mineral levels like calcium and magnesium, is commonly found in Bedford water. It affects skin, hair, and household fixtures. Private well users often need a water softener to prevent damage to and help reduce the repair and operation costs of appliances using water.
Radon in Bedford
The U.S. Geological Survey published data recently that estimates that over half of the state of New Hampshire is likely to have elevated radon levels in groundwater. Unfortunately, Radon has been found in Bedford well water. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that is common in bedrock in New Hampshire. It gives off harmful radiation which may increase risk of certain cancers. Radon in water poses both an inhalation risk and an ingestion risk.
Treatment Options for Bedford Water
Residents and businesses have the option to treat water at the point of entry (POE) or point of use (POU). Whole-house treatment systems, or POE systems, can be installed in basements or closets, while drinking water systems, or POU systems, can be discreetly placed under the sink or in the basement. Treatment decisions depend on individual needs and space considerations.
Water Testing and Solutions
Accurate water testing is essential for recommending suitable treatment options. Secondwind Water Systems, serving over 15,000 customers, and over 1,000 residents and businesses in Bedford, offers a free in-home evaluation by certified water specialists. We are familiar with the unique challenges posed by Bedford’s water quality, and tailored solutions based on test results and individual preferences. To ensure the highest level of integrity, Secondwind Water always only uses a third-party independent laboratory for health-related contaminant testing.
Contact Secondwind Water for Treatment and Filtration Solutions
For a free quote and water analysis discussion, residents and businesses in Bedford are encouraged to reach out to Secondwind Water Systems. Dedicated to ensuring water quality, Secondwind’s certified specialists provide expert guidance and solutions tailored to address specific water concerns in the community.
At Secondwind Water, our water professionals receive recurring training including certification by the Water Quality Association. When it comes to something as important as your water, better water starts here, at Secondwind.
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