Is Your Well Water Making You Sick? Common Contaminants Ontario Homeowners Need to Know

For homeowners in Ontario relying on private wells, the water flowing from your tap might look clear and taste fine—but that doesn’t mean it’s safe to drink.

🚨 Common Signs Your Well Water May Be Contaminated

If your well water is harbouring harmful contaminants, you may experience:

• Unusual odours or discolouration
• Bitter or metallic taste
• Frequent stomach issues (diarrhea, nausea, cramps)
• Skin irritation or dry, brittle hair
• Rusty stains on sinks, tubs, or laundry

In some cases, health symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or joint pain can be linked to toxic elements like lead, arsenic, or bacteria in your water.

How to Test Your Well Water in Ontario

In Canada, well water should be tested at least once per year for bacteria and every few years for chemical contaminants like nitrates, VOCs, and heavy metals. You can:

• Use a DIY test kit for basic levels like hardness or iron
• Send water samples to a certified Ontario lab for thorough analysis
• Book an in-home water consultation with a Quinn Water Systems specialist

Top Well Water Contaminants in Ontario

Here are the most common culprits we find in Ontario wells—plus how to fix them:

1. Iron

• Signs: Reddish stains, metallic taste, rusty-coloured water
• Health risks: Usually aesthetic, but high levels may cause nausea
• Treatment: Sediment filters, water softeners, or reverse osmosis systems

2. Lead

• Signs: Often invisible, sometimes cloudy water
• Health risks: Severe—especially for children; can cause developmental issues, headaches, and high blood pressure
• Treatment: Reverse osmosis or certified carbon filtration

3. Arsenic

• Signs: Undetectable without lab testing
• Health risks: Cancer risk, skin issues, and long-term poisoning
• Treatment: Reverse osmosis or specialty arsenic filters (e.g. Metsorb)

4. Bacteria (E. coli, Coliform)

• Signs: No smell or taste; only test reveals presence
• Health risks: Immediate symptoms like vomiting, fever, or diarrhea
• Treatment: UV disinfection systems and/or shock chlorination

5. VOCs & Pesticides

• Sources: Agricultural runoff, industrial waste
• Health risks: Nervous system damage, fertility issues, cancer
• Treatment: Activated carbon filters and RO systems

💧 How to Keep Your Well Water Safe Year-Round

• Test regularly: Every 6–12 months or after heavy rain/flooding
• Install proper Well Water filtration: Match your water filter to the specific contaminant
• Schedule professional service: Ensure filters and UV systems are maintained

At Quinn Water Systems, we specialize in custom well water solutions across Ontario. From iron filters to UV disinfection and reverse osmosis, we’ll help you find the right protection for your family.

✅ Free Water Testing + Expert Advice

Get peace of mind with a complimentary water test and consultation (Conditions applied) from a certified technician near you. We’ll test your water, explain the results, and recommend a personalized solution—no pressure, just clarity.

📍 Serving homeowners across Ontario