While arsenic is a naturally occurring element in rocks, soils, groundwater, and well water, it is also a known carcinogen, according to the New Jersey Geological and Water Survey. It is most commonly found in many of the bedrock aquifers of Central and North Jersey.
Due to the presence of arsenic, New Jersey homes with wells are required to be tested for arsenic when sold. If the element is found above safe levels for drinking water, an arsenic treatment system can be installed.
When using a treatment system, well water flows through a specialized filter that absorbs arsenic. When the system is functioning correctly, the water treatment media and the filtered arsenic are left behind in the treatment tank while potable water flows into the home, according to Smart Water Magazine.