Uranium in Well Water: Testing and Treatment
Where it comes from
Uranium occurs naturally in rocks and soils and can dissolve into groundwater. Granite and some other bedrock are more likely sources.
Limits
EPA's limit for public water is 30 µg/L (0.030 mg/L). Health Canada's maximum is 20 µg/L. Long-term exposure can affect the kidneys.
Testing
EPA's RadTown page recommends private well owners test for radionuclides every three years. A gross alpha test is a common screen; ask the lab whether to test uranium directly.
Treatment
Reverse osmosis and anion exchange can reduce uranium. Retest the treated water.
Sources
- EPA RadTown: Natural radionuclides in private wells
- EPA: National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
- Health Canada: Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality, summary table
Questions
Can I boil water to remove uranium?
No. Boiling doesn't remove uranium.
Free well water safety checklist
15 family-friendly steps based on CDC and EPA guidance. Print it, keep it on the fridge, and know when to call a certified lab.
More guides
- Flood Protection for Well Owners: Before, During and After a FloodRaise and seal the wellhead, know your pump shutoff, then disinfect and test with a certified lab after any flood.
- PFAS “Forever Chemicals” in Private Wells: Why You Should TestFederal PFAS rules protect public water systems — not private wells. Here’s what “forever chemicals” mean for well owners and how to get tested.
- Nitrates in Well Water and Blue Baby Syndrome: Who Must TestNitrate in well water can cause blue baby syndrome in infants. Learn who is at risk, when to test, and how to find a certified lab.
- Arsenic in Private Well Water: The Invisible Risk UndergroundArsenic in groundwater is often naturally occurring and invisible. USGS research shows millions of private-well users may be above the EPA drinking-water standard.