Well Water in Florida
Contaminant risks, testing requirements, and treatment recommendations for private well owners in Florida.
Florida Geology and Groundwater
Florida sits on Floridan limestone aquifer. This geology directly determines what contaminants are likely in private well water. Based on this geology, Florida well owners face elevated risk for PFAS from industrial/military sites. Moderate risk exists for arsenic, radon, nitrate, uranium.
Contaminant Risk Profile
| Contaminant | Risk Level | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Arsenic | Moderate risk | Some geological zones have elevated levels. Test recommended. |
| Nitrate | Moderate risk | Some areas near farmland or septic systems may have elevated levels. |
| Radon | Moderate risk | Some bedrock types in this state produce radon. |
| PFAS | Elevated risk | Military bases, industrial sites, or manufacturing in this state have contaminated groundwater. |
| Iron/Manganese | Moderate risk | Found in some wells depending on local geology. |
| Uranium | Moderate risk | Some geological zones may have elevated levels. |
| Fluoride | Moderate risk | Some wells may have naturally elevated levels. |
How Florida Compares: Municipal Water Data
CheckMyTap tracks water quality for 64 cities in Florida. While these numbers reflect municipal water (not private wells), they indicate the baseline mineral content of Florida's water sources. Private wells often draw from the same aquifers but with less treatment.
| Metric | Florida Average | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 236 PPM (very hard) | 170 PPM |
| Hardness range | 160 - 310 PPM | 25 - 400+ PPM |
| Lead (avg municipal) | 4.2 ppb | 3.2 ppb |
| Nitrate (avg municipal) | 0.2 mg/L | 1.1 mg/L |
| Cities with PFAS detected | 42 of 64 | ~45% nationally |
| Cities exceeding PFAS MCL (4 ppt) | 40 |
Hardest water in Florida: Leesburg (310 PPM), Sun City Center (310 PPM), Lake Worth (280 PPM), Miami Beach (280 PPM), St. Johns (280 PPM).
Testing Requirements in Florida
Florida requires well water testing at property transfer. Must disclose water source and most recent test results at sale. Regardless of state requirements, the EPA recommends testing annually for:
- Every year: Total coliform bacteria, E. coli, nitrate, pH, and total dissolved solids
- At least once: Arsenic, lead, copper, fluoride, and any contaminant identified as a local risk
- Recommended for Florida: Radon in water (granitic bedrock states have higher risk)
- Recommended for Florida: PFAS panel, especially if near military bases or industrial sites
- Recommended for Florida: Uranium, especially in areas with granitic or metamorphic bedrock
- After events: Retest after flooding, well repairs, nearby construction, or any change in taste/color/odor
Recommended Treatment for Florida Wells
Based on Florida's geology and common contaminant risks, these treatment systems address the most likely issues:
Removes arsenic, uranium, and most dissolved contaminants from drinking water
Learn moreFlorida groundwater averages 236 PPM. A softener prevents scale damage, reduces energy waste, and extends appliance life
Learn moreKills bacteria and viruses without chemicals. Recommended for all well water systems
Frequently Asked Questions
Is well water in Florida safe to drink?
Well water quality in Florida varies significantly by location and geology. Florida sits on Floridan limestone aquifer. Key concerns include PFAS from industrial/military sites. The only way to know your specific water quality is to test it. Use our free interpreter to understand your results.
How often should I test my well water in Florida?
The EPA recommends testing annually for bacteria (total coliform, E. coli), nitrate, total dissolved solids, and pH. Given Florida's arsenic risk, test for arsenic at least once and after any changes to your well. Radon testing is also recommended in Florida. Test more frequently if you notice changes in taste, color, or odor, or after flooding, nearby construction, or well repairs.
Does Florida require well water testing?
Florida has mandatory testing requirements. Must disclose water source and most recent test results at sale. However, the EPA strongly recommends annual testing regardless of state requirements. Your county health department may have additional local requirements.
What is the average water hardness in Florida?
Municipal water in Florida averages 236 PPM across 64 cities tracked by CheckMyTap, ranging from 160 to 310 PPM. Private well water typically runs 20-50% harder than city water because groundwater has more contact time with mineral formations. Most Florida well owners benefit from a water softener. Check your city's data.