Nitrates in your well water: test it, then remove it
Fertilizer and septic runoff can reach wells.
Nitrates come from fertilizer and septic systems and mostly show up in well water. Here's how to test and what removes them.
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You're probably on this page because:
- You live near farms or have a septic system
- You're expecting a baby and want to be sure about your water
Nitrates matter most for infants. Test first.
Nitrates, by the numbers
- 10 ppm: the federal limit for nitrate (as nitrogen).
- Under 6 months: babies are most at risk, which is why reports carry a warning.
Sources: EPA; Miami-Dade WASD 2025 report language.
Where they come from
Fertilizer, septic systems and animal waste.
What reduces them
- Certified RO for drinking water
- Specialty ion exchange for whole-house
Life with it vs. without
| Without it | With it |
|---|---|
| Guessing what's in your water | Knowing, and fixing it |
Our take
Test at the right time
We've answered this question thousands of times, on calls, on installs and for the water companies we supply.
Nitrate levels can jump after heavy rain or fertilizer season. If you're on a well near farms or a septic field, test in spring and after big storms, not just once a year.
If you're caring for an infant, use tested or filtered water for formula until you know your levels.
Written by people who install these every day
20+ years in water. No fluff, just how it really works.
- 20+ years in water
- Our own patents
- We supply other water companies
- [Thousands] of systems sold
- Licensed installers
Written by [Name], [title], [20+] years in water treatment. Reviewed by [Licensed plumber name], license # [#]. Last updated [date]. Sources: listed under each "By the numbers" block and linked in the copy
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Questions people ask
Does reverse osmosis remove nitrates?
Yes, certified RO reduces them.
How do I test for nitrates?
Lab test or certified kit.
Does boiling remove nitrates?
No, it concentrates them.
Are nitrates in city water?
Utilities keep them under 10 ppm.
Who is most at risk?
Babies under 6 months.
Does a softener remove nitrates?
Not a standard one.