Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. In addition to potential health risks posed by contaminants in drinking water, there can also be various other problems that poor water quality can cause. Poor water quality can lead to corrosion in pipes, fixtures and appliances, as well as staining and weakening the fibers of your clothing and household fixtures. When our technicians and consultants do water sample testing, we’re able to provide recommendations for next steps.

Private well owners should test their water at least once a year. Additional testing is recommended after flooding, well repairs, or any noticeable changes in your water’s taste, odor, color, or pressure. Homes on municipal water can also benefit from periodic testing to check for plumbing-related contaminants and verify water quality.

A water quality test can check for various contaminants and conditions such as hardness, pH issues, iron, manganese, bacteria, nitrates, chlorine, lead, and other substances. The exact testing we recommend will depend on your water source and concerns.

Yes. Municipal water is disinfected before it reaches your home, but water quality can still be affected by damaged plumbing, lead or copper pipes, chlorine, disinfection byproducts, minerals, PFAS, and other contaminants. Testing helps determine if filtration or softening would improve your water.

Free water testing is a reliable way to identify many common water contaminants, including hardness, iron, and more. If additional concerns are suspected, laboratory testing can provide more detailed results for contaminants such as bacteria, PFAS, or lead.

You should schedule water testing if you notice any unusual issues with your water. This may include:

• Bad tastes or odors
• Discoloration
• Staining on fixtures and laundry
• Spotty dishes
• Cloudy water
• Hard water buildup
• Low water pressure
• Slime in the toilet tank
• Flecks or debris in water
• Mineral buildup in pipes
• Poor appliance efficiency

If you use a private well that has recently been flooded or repaired, or there has been recent construction, farming, or industrial activity in your area, testing is also recommended.

Yes. Professional water testing identifies the specific issues affecting your water so the correct treatment system can be recommended.

Yes. Carroll Water offers professional water testing for both private wells and municipal water supplies. Our team explains the results and recommends treatment solutions based on your water quality.

Hard water testing measures the amount of calcium and magnesium dissolved in your water. The results determine whether a water softener or other treatment system would benefit your home.

Municipal water meets regulatory standards when it leaves the treatment plant, but water quality can change as it travels through water mains and your home’s plumbing. Our professional water consultants can identify issues such as hard water, chlorine, lead, copper, or other concerns and recommend solutions based on your specific water conditions.

Water contamination can have numerous causes. Some of these contaminants naturally occur in the environment, and some are inorganic. Other causes are the residual waste of farming, commercial or industrial waste. We pride ourselves on understanding the root causes of water problems, so we can quickly diagnose and resolve any water. Learn more by viewing the EPA’s Water Contamination Chart.

The first step is professional water testing. Your results help identify contaminants and determine whether you need a water softener, filtration system, reverse osmosis, UV purification, or another treatment solution.

Your local water supplier publishes an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) that lists regulated contaminants found in the public water supply. A professional water test can accurately identify issues such as hard minerals, chlorine, copper, lead, PFAS, or other common water contaminants that are entering your home or business.

Common signs of hard water can include white scale buildup, dry skin, stiff laundry, spotty dishes and glassware, soap that doesn’t lather well, and reduced appliance efficiency. A professional water test can measure hardness levels and determine if a water softener is recommended.

Hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium dissolve into groundwater as it moves through rock and soil. A water softener or conditioner can remove these minerals before they reach your plumbing system.

A rotten egg smell is usually caused by hydrogen sulfide gas, and sometimes sulfur bacteria in the water. Your water heater may also be the cause if the anode rod needs replacing. The odor may be stronger in hot water or after the water has been sitting in pipes. Water testing can identify the source so our experts can recommend the right treatment.

Treatment depends on the cause. Common solutions include aeration systems, oxidation filters, chemical treatment, activated carbon filters, or specialty filtration.

Sulfur and methane gases can occur naturally in groundwater. Sulfur causes a rotten egg odor, while methane may create bubbling water and sputtering faucets. Treatment often includes aeration, venting, oxidation, or specialized filtration systems.

Alkaline water is water that contains higher levels of mineral compounds that are low in acidity, such as calcium, magnesium, nickel, iron, zinc and sodium. These minerals lower the potential Hydrogen level (or pH level), meaning your body needs to absorb these minerals and contaminants. Water is typically best for people when it has the lowest levels of total dissolved solids (TDS) in water.

As a naturally occurring chemical compound, arsenic is found in most bodies of natural water in the form of salt. Though this is typically found in very small concentrations in nature, this compound is also a byproduct of industrial and agricultural pollution. Continually drinking water that contains arsenic can have a severe impact on a person’s health, especially on the cardiovascular system. Arsenic exposure has even been demonstrated to lead to cancer if large enough quantities are taken for a prolonged period of time.

Bacteria can enter well water through flooding, damaged wells, septic system problems, and other sources. Common bacteria include total coliform bacteria and E. coli. While total coliform bacteria may not always pose health risks, they can indicate that other contaminants have entered your water supply.

UV water purification systems, chlorination, reverse osmosis (RO), and other treatment methods can eliminate bacteria after testing confirms contamination.

Chlorine is a disinfectant used by many municipal water systems to control bacteria and keep municipal supply lines clean. Some people notice its taste or smell, which is often compared to a swimming pool. Activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis systems, water refiners, and conditioners can help reduce chlorine.

Activated carbon filtration is one of the most effective ways to reduce chlorine. Whole-home filtration systems, reverse osmosis, water refiners, and other systems can also improve the taste and odor of water.

Chromium-6 is a form of chromium that can enter drinking water from industrial pollution or natural deposits. Professional water testing can determine if it is present. Reverse osmosis systems are commonly used to reduce chromium-6.

Cloudy water is often caused by tiny air bubbles that clear within a few minutes. It can also be caused by sediment or suspended particles. If the problem continues, a water test from Carroll Water can identify the cause.

Sediment may come from dirt, sand, silt, rust, aging pipes, or well water. It can make water appear cloudy and damage plumbing fixtures. Sediment filters are commonly used to remove these particles.

A metallic taste may be caused by iron, manganese, copper, or even low-pH acidic water. Water testing can identify the source. Treatment depends on the contaminant and may include filtration or pH correction.

Iron in water is a common issue that can stain sinks, tubs, and laundry. Some homes also have iron bacteria, which can cause slimy buildup and odors. Iron filters, oxidation systems, and specialty treatment systems can remove iron.

Nitrates are contaminants that can enter groundwater from fertilizer, septic systems, animal waste, and other sources. High nitrate levels can pose health risks, especially for infants and pregnant women. Water testing is the only way to detect nitrates.

Reverse osmosis systems, ion exchange systems, and other specialty treatment systems can reduce nitrates in drinking water.

PFAS are man-made chemicals sometimes called “forever chemicals,” including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). They can enter groundwater through industrial activities, firefighting foam, pollution, manufacturing, and other sources. Reverse osmosis, activated carbon filtration, and some ion exchange systems can help reduce these contaminants.

Radon is a radioactive gas that is created through the natural decay of uranium, which is found in nearly all soils. This radioactive gas is cancer-causing and is not detectable by sight, smell or taste. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and is responsible for nearly 20,000 deaths annually. Radon can enter a building through cracks and holes in a foundation or through the water supply, specifically through well water. Drinking water with radon has been shown to increase a person’s risk for stomach cancer.

While utilizing a “point of use” treatment system is effective at removing radon from drinking water, it will not reduce exposure to radon released into the air from all the other sources of water that are used in the home. Therefore, Carroll Water recommends the use of point-of-entry radon treatment systems for most residential applications.

Turbidity occurs when dirt, sand, or other organic material mixes and dissolves in the water supply. This can occur in both well and public water. If the water contains dirt or is brown when it pours out of a fixture, then turbidity may be an issue you are experiencing. Turbidity can lead to clogged pipes and can increase unnecessary wear on valves, seals, and washers.

Methyl tertiary-butyl ether, or MTBE, is an additive that is mixed with gasoline to improve flammability and reduce the amount of carbon monoxide which is put into the air by automobile engines. Unfortunately, MTBE dissolves very quickly in water and some studies have shown that exposure to boiling water that contains MTBE has shown a higher occurrence of malignancy. The overall evaluation by studies focused on the carcinogenic risks of simply drinking water with MTBE is inconclusive. This has led a number of national and international health and environmental agencies to leave MTBE off of lists of known carcinogens, though some of these agencies have admitted that, though there is insufficient evidence at this time, there is indeed a likelihood that MTBE may contribute to occurrences of cancer.

Common water contaminants often include hard minerals, iron, manganese, sediment, bacteria, nitrates, chlorine, chloramine, PFAS, lead, copper, and hydrogen sulfide gas. Professional water testing identifies which contaminants are present and helps determine the right treatment.

Yes. Whole-house water filtration systems treat water as it enters your home, providing filtered water to every tap. This includes appliances, faucets, showers, and plumbing fixtures.

Maintenance depends on the type of system. Most require periodic filter replacements, inspections, and occasional servicing to ensure they continue operating efficiently.

A whole-house water filtration system purifies all water flowing into your home. A reverse osmosis system typically provides highly purified drinking water at a specific faucet. Many homeowners install both systems or invest in a whole-home RO system.

It depends on your water quality goals. Whole-house filtration improves water throughout the home and can include water softening technology, sediment filters, carbon filters, RO, or other filtration mechanisms. A point-of-use reverse osmosis unit only provides filtered water at one sink for drinking and cooking. Both options can reduce many different contaminants.

The right system depends on your water quality, existing contaminants, overall water use, and household size. A professional water test helps determine the best filtration system for your needs.

Reverse osmosis is a water purification process used in many drinking water systems. RO forces water through a semi-permeable membrane to reduce many dissolved contaminants, improving taste, odor, and overall quality.

Expert installation helps ensure the system is correctly sized, properly connected, and accurately configured for your home’s plumbing and water quality. It also helps maximize system performance and reliability.

Common signs include slower water flow, less production, and changes in taste or odor. Another sign is that you have gone over the manufacturer’s recommended replacement schedule.

Most pre-filters and carbon filters should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on water quality and daily usage.

Most RO membranes last about 2 to 5 years. The lifespan depends on system maintenance frequency, water quality, and daily water usage.

Carbon filters help reduce chlorine, chloramine, unpleasant tastes and odors, and many organic compounds. They also help protect the RO membrane from damage.

Yes. Reverse osmosis systems work well for many private wells. In some cases, pre-treatment may be recommended to address iron, manganese, sediment, or bacteria before the water reaches the RO system.

Make sure the water supply valve is open, then check for clogged filters, low water pressure, or a full storage tank. If the issue continues, contact Carroll Water to inspect the system.

Yes. Many reverse osmosis systems can supply purified water to your refrigerator for cleaner ice and drinking water.

Properly maintained reverse osmosis systems can reduce many PFAS compounds. They are one of the most effective residential treatment options for these contaminants.

Yes. During a boil water notice, follow your local water utility’s guidance. Reverse osmosis systems are not designed to replace boil water advisories unless specifically approved by local health authorities.

Usually not. If your sink already has an unused accessory hole, it can often be used for the RO faucet. If no opening is available, a small hole may need to be drilled in the countertop or sink.

A whole-house water filtration system purifies all water flowing into your home. A reverse osmosis system typically provides highly purified drinking water at a specific faucet. Many homeowners install both systems or invest in a whole-home RO system.

A water softener removes calcium and magnesium from hard water. This helps reduce scale buildup, protects plumbing, improves soap performance, and extends the life of appliances.

At Carroll Water, we start with professional water testing to recommend the right system for your water. We also provide expert installation, maintenance, repairs, and ongoing local support to help your system perform its best for years to come. We have a combined experience of over 130 years working with residential, commercial, and light industrial customers.

Yes. A water softener helps reduce scale buildup caused by hard water. This can improve efficiency and extend the life of appliances like water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, and coffee makers.

Many homeowners notice softer skin, smoother hair, cleaner dishes, fewer water spots, and less soap scum after installing a softener. Soft water also helps soap and shampoo rinse away more easily.

Water softeners use a small amount of water during the regeneration cycle. Modern systems are designed to regenerate only when needed, making them much more water-efficient than older models.

EcoWater Elite Series softeners have a patented algorithm that chooses the optimal time to backwash, and thus use far less water and salt than others.

Yes. We offer financing options for qualified customers. Our team can explain available plans and help you choose a system that fits your budget.

Most residential water softeners require about the same amount of floor space as a small appliance. During your consultation, we will recommend the best location for installation.

A water softener connects to your home’s main water line. It also needs access to a drain and a nearby electrical outlet. Installation requirements may vary depending on your plumbing.

Yes. We can install a water softener even if your home was not pre-plumbed. Our team can make the plumbing modifications needed for proper installation.

Yes. We can install a softener loop and any necessary plumbing during or after construction to prepare your home for a water softener.

We provide professional water softener installation for customers on both well water and municipal water.

Most water softeners should be inspected once a year. Regular maintenance helps keep the system working efficiently. We offer maintenance services to help extend the life of your equipment, including customized plans. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

A high-quality water softener usually lasts 10 to 15 years or more with proper upkeep. Regular service can help maximize its lifespan.

It depends on your water. A water softener removes hard minerals, but it does not remove every contaminant. Water testing can determine if you would also benefit from filtration, like reverse osmosis.

Regeneration is the cleaning cycle that restores the resin beads so they can continue removing hard minerals. Most systems regenerate at night because water use is usually lower.  However, depending on your household schedule, regeneration can be set for any time during the day or night.

Yes, but the water being treated during regeneration may not be fully softened. Most systems regenerate overnight when water use is low.

A water softener loop is a short section of plumbing on the main cold-water line with dedicated inlet and outlet connections for a softener, plus valves to isolate or bypass the unit. It’s typically located near where the water line enters the home, often in a garage, utility room, or basement.

Resin is made of small beads inside the water softener tank. These beads attract and remove calcium and magnesium from hard water through the ion exchange process. The resin exchanges hard mineral ions for sodium or potassium ions, depending on the media used.

Water softener resin often lasts 10 to 15 years. Lifespan depends on water quality, system maintenance, resin type, and household water use.

Most water softeners allow you to reset the clock using the control panel. If you need help, our team can walk you through the process or schedule a service visit.  Keep in mind, most EcoWater softeners have a 68-hour battery backup, making it unlikely that you’ll need to reset the clock.

Water flows through a tank filled with resin beads. The beads remove hardness minerals through ion exchange, providing softened water. The system then regenerates periodically using salt to recharge the resin.

Many homeowners keep outdoor faucets connected before the water softener. This allows plants and landscaping to receive untreated water. Our team can recommend the best plumbing setup for your home.

Adding salt is simple. Just lift the lid of the brine tank and pour in water softener salt when the level gets low. If you prefer, we also offer salt delivery and refill services.

Most households get salt delivery every 2 to 4 months. The amount depends on your water hardness, household size, and water use.

Check the brine tank regularly. If the salt level is low or you notice hard water returning, it is time to refill the tank.

Salt costs vary depending on the type and amount needed. We offer convenient salt delivery so you don’t have to transport heavy bags yourself.

Yes. We offer scheduled salt delivery services to keep your water softener supplied and operating properly.

Most systems use salt pellets, solar salt, or evaporated salt. The best choice depends on your water quality and water softener model. Our team can recommend the right product to help your system perform efficiently.

We deliver several types of water softener salt, such as pellets, solar salt, evaporated salt, blocks, potassium chloride, and more. We can recommend the best option for your system.

Salt delivery saves time and eliminates the need to lift heavy bags. It also helps prevent your softener from running out of salt, which keeps it working properly.

Yes. We can refill your salt, inspect your system, check settings, and perform routine maintenance to help keep your water softener operating efficiently.

Yes. Regular maintenance helps keep your well system operating efficiently and may help identify small problems before they become costly repairs.

Most private wells should be inspected and tested at least once a year. Annual inspections help confirm your well equipment is working properly. Yearly water testing helps ensure your water remains clean and potable.

Yes. If you suddenly lose water or experience a well system problem, contact Carroll Water. Our team will work to restore your water as quickly as possible.

Yes. Carroll Water offers free estimates for well drilling and many other well services. We’ll evaluate your property, discuss your water needs, and provide clear recommendations before any work begins.

A new well may be recommended if your existing well no longer produces enough water, has recurring water quality problems, cannot be economically repaired, or no longer meets your property’s water demands. A professional evaluation can help determine whether repair or replacement is the better long-term solution.

Yes. Carroll Water offers free estimates for well drilling and many other well services. We’ll evaluate your property, discuss your water needs, and provide clear recommendations before any work begins.

Several factors can affect the cost of a new well, including drilling depth, ground conditions, casing requirements, pump selection, water treatment needs, permit fees, and site accessibility. Every project is unique.

Well depth varies throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia because groundwater conditions differ from one location to another. Nearby wells can provide some guidance, but the final depth depends on the geology beneath your property.

Permit requirements vary by location. Carroll Water will explain the costs upfront for your project so you know exactly what is included in your estimate.

Yes. Carroll Water offers financing options for many well and water treatment projects. Contact us to learn about available financing programs.

We can drill most wells for residential properties within one to three days, although larger or more complex projects may take longer. The overall timeline also depends on permitting, weather, and site conditions.

The process includes choosing and preparing the site, drilling the well, installing the casing, developing the well, testing water production, and installing the well pump and related equipment. Once complete, the system is tested to ensure it operates properly.

There is no standard depth for every well. The required depth depends on local groundwater levels and underground rock formations. Our experienced drilling team determines the appropriate depth during the installation process.

Our goal is to minimize disruption whenever possible. We carefully plan equipment placement and work efficiently to reduce the impact on your property. Some temporary disturbance is normal, but we make every effort to leave the site clean when the work is complete.

Project scheduling depends on current demand, permitting, and weather conditions. Contact Carroll Water for current availability, and we’ll work to schedule your project as soon as possible.

Yes. Carroll Water is fully licensed and insured to perform well drilling and related water services. Our experienced team follows all applicable regulations and industry standards.

Carroll Water has decades of experience providing well drilling for homeowners, farms, and businesses throughout the region. Our team has been serving customers throughout Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Southern Pennsylvania since 1983.

Our team has extensive experience drilling wells throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. We understand the local geology and groundwater conditions that can affect well construction and performance.

View our service areas to find out if we offer drilling in your area.

Yes. Carroll Water provides well drilling for residential, agricultural, and commercial applications.

We are proud of the work we do and can discuss our experience with similar projects. We also encourage customers to read our online reviews to learn about the experiences of other homeowners and businesses.

Yes. Carroll Water installs, replaces, repairs, and services well pumps for residential, agricultural, and commercial water systems.

The right well pump depends on your well depth, water demand, pressure requirements, and system design. Our team will recommend the proper pump based on your property’s specific needs.

Yes. We diagnose well pump problems and provide repairs whenever possible. If replacement is the better option, we’ll recommend a properly sized pump for your system.

Most well pumps last between 8 and 15 years, although some last longer with proper maintenance. Factors such as water quality, sediment, usage, and pump type all affect lifespan.

Jet pumps are usually installed above ground and are typically used for shallow wells. Submersible pumps are installed inside the well and are commonly used for deeper wells. Our team can recommend the best option based on your water system.

Most well pumps last about 8 to 15 years, although lifespan depends on water quality, usage, installation, type, and maintenance.

Common signs include:

• Low water pressure or no water
• Water that suddenly stops or cuts in and out
• Faucets that sputter or blow bursts of air before water comes out
• Dirty or cloudy water
• A pump that runs constantly or cycles on and off more than normal
• Strange noises from the pump or pressure tank (grinding, humming, clicking)
• Unexplained spikes in your electric bill

These issues can be caused by a failing pump, pressure tank problems, electrical issues, or even changes in the well itself. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to have your system inspected.

Yes. Low water pressure may be caused by well pump or pressure tank issues, clogged plumbing, leaks, or other well system concerns. We can diagnose the cause and recommend the appropriate repair.

A water refiner is a system that softens hard water while also reducing contaminants such as chlorine and unpleasant tastes or odors. It combines multiple treatment processes into one system.

A water softener is designed to remove hard minerals like calcium and magnesium. A water refiner goes a step further by combining water softening with additional filtration to improve overall water quality.

It depends on your water quality. A water filter may improve taste, odor, or remove specific contaminants, but it typically does not soften hard water. If you have both hard water and other water quality concerns, a water refiner may offer more complete coverage.

Common signs include hard water scale, soap scum, dry skin, staining, chlorine taste and odor, or cloudy water. A professional water test can identify the specific issues in your home’s water and determine whether a water refiner is the right solution.

Yes, by addressing hard minerals and other water quality issues, a water refiner can help reduce scale buildup, improve appliance efficiency, and extend the lifespan of water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, and pipes.

The primary maintenance task is replenishing the salt supply every 2 to 4 months, depending on water usage. Most systems also benefit from professional maintenance once or twice a year. Routine service may include checking the resin bed, replacing filter media if needed, inspecting valves, and confirming the system is operating correctly. The exact maintenance schedule depends on your water quality and system type.

Geothermal heat pumps use the stable temperature below the ground to heat and cool your home. They are energy efficient, environmentally friendly, and can reduce heating and cooling costs when properly installed. Carroll Water offers geothermal well drilling for efficient installation.

Most water treatment systems can stay with the home or be moved to a new property, depending on the equipment. We can help you decide which option makes the most sense.

Common signs include low water pressure, changes in water taste or odor, staining, cloudy water, salt not being used, leaks, or the system not operating properly. Regular maintenance helps keep your system working efficiently.

Repairs are often the best choice for newer systems with minor issues. Replacement may be more cost-effective if the system is older, frequently breaks down, or no longer meets your water quality needs.

Yes. Installing water treatment equipment during construction can simplify installation and help protect your plumbing from the start. We can recommend the right system based on your water test results.

Yes. Many of our water treatment systems include manufacturer warranties. Warranty coverage varies by product, and our team will explain your options before installation.

Yes. We service many types of water treatment systems, including equipment we did not install. Our trained technicians can inspect the system, recommend repairs, and perform routine maintenance.

Your main water shutoff is often located where the water line enters your home, such as a basement, utility room, crawl space, or garage. Homes with municipal water may also have a meter near the street or sidewalk.