Fast, reliable testing with results you can understand. Get peace of mind with certified lab testing for bacteria, minerals, and other contaminants common in Charleston wells. Schedule your well water test today.
If your home runs on a private well, the water coming out of your tap isn’t being checked or treated by the city. That means the only way to know your water is clean and safe is to have it tested. At Wadford Water Works, we specialize in certified well water testing for homeowners across Charleston and the Lowcountry. Once the results are back, we sit down with you and explain everything in plain language. Get a clear picture of what’s in your water and what (if anything) needs to be done to keep your water safe. Contact us today to get started!
Living in Charleston has its perks, but local wells do come with some common water issues. Many homeowners notice things like:
Iron and staining: Reddish-brown stains in sinks, tubs, or laundry often point to excess iron in the water.
Sulfur odors: That “rotten egg” smell usually means hydrogen sulfide gas is present.
Hard water: High levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium can cause buildup on fixtures and make soap less effective.
Bacteria: Coliform and other harmful bacteria can sneak into wells, especially after heavy rains or flooding.
Saltwater intrusion: Because Charleston is coastal, wells closer to the shoreline sometimes pull in saltwater, leaving the water tasting brackish.
Most of these issues are just part of relying on groundwater. They can affect your plumbing, your appliances, and in some cases, your health. That’s why regular testing is so important. With the right testing, you’ll know exactly what you’re dealing with and whether it’s just a nuisance or a real health concern. Contact us today to schedule a private well water test in Charleston and the surrounding areas.
Some well problems build up slowly, but others need fast attention. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a well water test right away:
Sudden change in taste, smell, or color: Water that turns metallic, cloudy, or develops a strong odor is a red flag.
Family illness or stomach issues: Bacteria and other contaminants can cause recurring health problems if not caught early.
After heavy rain or flooding: Charleston’s low-lying areas are prone to flooding, which can let surface contaminants seep into your well.
New staining or buildup: Rust-colored stains or white scale on fixtures can mean iron, manganese, or hardness levels have changed.
Well repairs or construction nearby: Anytime your well has been opened, or if nearby land has been disturbed, testing should follow.
If something seems off, it’s always safer to test sooner rather than later. A quick lab test can give you peace of mind and help you avoid bigger problems down the road. Catching issues early can protect your health, your plumbing, and your peace of mind. Call us to get started.
Bacteria (Coliform and E. coli): These are the top concerns because they can make your family sick.
Nitrates and Nitrites: These often come from fertilizer runoff or septic systems. They’re especially dangerous for babies and pregnant women, so they’re always on our testing list.
Iron and Manganese: Common in Charleston wells. They don’t usually pose a health risk, but can cause those orange or black stains in sinks, tubs, and laundry, and can give water a metallic taste.
Hardness and pH Levels: Hard water is tough on appliances and plumbing, and low pH (acidic water) can corrode your pipes. We check both so you know if your water might be eating away at your plumbing behind the scenes.
Sulfur (Hydrogen Sulfide): This is the “rotten egg” smell many homeowners complain about.
Saltwater Intrusion: Because Charleston is so close to the coast, some wells are at risk of saltwater creeping in.
Heavy Metals (like Lead and Arsenic): Not as common, but we test for them when needed.
Testing for these issues doesn’t just protect your health. It also helps you understand how your water might impact your plumbing, appliances, and even the taste of your drinking water.
Step 1: Schedule a visit – Call us to set up a convenient time.
Step 2: We come to your home – A licensed technician collects water samples.
Step 3: Certified lab testing – Samples are sent to a trusted lab for full analysis.
Step 4: Easy-to-read results – We explain exactly what’s in your water, in plain language.
Step 5: Solutions if needed – If a problem shows up, we’ll recommend the right treatment options.
Charleston's wells face challenges that look different from other parts of the country. Working with a local company like Wadford Water Works means you’re getting solutions designed for our conditions, not generic advice. Here’s what sets Charleston apart:
Saltwater intrusion – Coastal wells can pull in salty groundwater, especially during droughts or over-pumping.
Heavy rains & flooding – Lowcountry storms can wash bacteria and surface contaminants into wells.
Septic system proximity – Many homes rely on septic tanks, which can leak into groundwater if not properly maintained.
Mineral-heavy water – Iron, manganese, and hardness are common here and cause staining, buildup, and a metallic taste.
Unique soil & geology – Sandy soil and shallow aquifers make Charleston wells more vulnerable to contamination than deeper inland wells.With decades of local experience, we know the patterns, the risks, and the fixes that work best in Charleston and the surrounding Lowcountry.
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about well water testing from our customers
The EPA and South Carolina DHEC recommend testing your well at least once a year for bacteria like coliform and E. coli, and after any major flooding, heavy rain, or well repairs.
The cost depends on how comprehensive the test is. A basic bacteria test is usually on the lower end, while a full panel that checks for bacteria, minerals, metals, and other contaminants will cost more. At Wadford Water Works, we’re upfront about pricing and make sure you only pay for the tests that matter for your home. Contact us to schedule your water test today.
In our area, the most common issues we see are:
Bacteria (coliform and E. coli) – often after flooding or from nearby septic systems
Iron and manganese – cause staining and metallic taste
Hard water minerals – build up on faucets and shorten appliance life
Sulfur (hydrogen sulfide) – that “rotten egg” smell many homeowners notice
Saltwater intrusion – a coastal issue that can make water taste salty and damage plumbing
Every well is different, which is why professional lab testing is so important. Schedule your well water test today.
Don’t panic. A failed test doesn’t mean your well is ruined, it just means action is needed. First, stop drinking the water until you know it’s safe. Then, depending on the problem, solutions could include:
Shock chlorination or disinfection
Installing or upgrading a filtration system
Adding a water softener or reverse osmosis system
Sealing or repairing the well casing
We’ll guide you through the right next step so you’re not left guessing.
You can, but keep in mind that DIY kits are limited. They may catch some basics, but they often miss the contaminants that matter most, like bacteria after flooding or saltwater intrusion. They also won’t give you the certified results required for real estate transactions or health concerns. For reliable answers, a certified lab test is the way to go. Schedule your well water test with Wadford Water Works today.
Local Water Filter & Water Softener Company proudly serving Charleston, North Charleston, Hannahan, Mt. Pleasant, Awendaw, Summerville, Moncks Corner, Sumter, Manning, Summerton, Bonneau, Goose Creek, Columbia, Kiawah Island, Cross, Pineville, St. Stephen, Cane Bay, John’s Island, James Island, Orangeburg, Kingstree, Walterboro, and the surrounding Charleston metropolitan area. Counties we serve include: Berkeley County, Spartanburg County, Orangeburg County, Charleston County, Dorchester County, Williamsburg County, Clarendon County, Colleton County, Calhoun County, Barnwell County, Sumter County, & Allendale County.
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