Arsenic 15 ppb in a Private Well: What Should You Do?

A 15 ppb arsenic result is above the federal drinking water standard of 10 ppb. Use an alternate water source for drinking and cooking until the result is confirmed and a certified treatment system is installed and verified.

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Tests to run

Arsenic
pH
Iron
Manganese
Phosphate

Next steps

Confirm the result with a certified laboratory, preferably including arsenic speciation if treatment selection depends on it.
Use bottled or treated water for drinking, cooking, coffee, tea, and infant formula.
Do not rely on standard sediment filters, softeners, or boiling for arsenic removal.
Consider point-of-use reverse osmosis, adsorptive media, or distillation and verify performance after installation.

FAQ

Can I shower with 15 ppb arsenic well water?

Arsenic exposure from bathing is usually much lower than from drinking or cooking, but ask your local health department if household members have special health risks.

Does a water softener remove arsenic?

A typical water softener is not designed to remove arsenic. Use treatment certified for arsenic reduction and confirm with post-treatment testing.

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Educational guidance only. Always confirm important decisions with a certified laboratory, local health department, qualified water treatment professional, or clinician.