Same aquifer, very different water
The city's 2025 report describes the Biscayne Aquifer as a shallow, highly permeable limestone layer that supplies virtually all water used in South Florida, with elevated calcium and magnesium. The Winson plant treats it in stages: aeration to remove carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, lime and sodium hypochlorite to remove minerals such as iron and destroy bacteria, filtration, and chloramine disinfection. A backyard well delivers that water untreated, so hardness, iron and a sulfur smell are all common.
Florida DOH testing advice
| Test | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Coliform bacteria | Every year |
| Nitrate | Every year |
| Lead | Every three years for most homeowners |
| Other tests | Based on the well's location, depth and condition |
Florida has no requirement for routine testing of private home wells, and the DOH says private well owners are responsible for their own well water. Use a state-certified laboratory for these tests.
Irrigation wells
Irrigation wells keep lawns green without using treated water, but they can leave orange stains and a sulfur smell. Miami-Dade's year-round watering restrictions apply to them too.
Treating a drinking well
Jorge's in-home test covers hardness, iron, pH, dissolved solids and odor. From those results and any lab work, Living Water configures a well water system, combining stages such as iron and sulfur treatment, softening and filtration. Add an under-sink RO for drinking water. For bacteria concerns, see UV vs. RO for well water.
Connecting to city water
If you are on a private well and city water runs along your street, connecting removes the need to treat drinking water yourself. Ask North Miami's Public Works Department, which lists 305-895-9830 for questions in its water report, whether service is available to your property. Many owners keep an old well for irrigation after connecting, which keeps the iron and sulfur questions outdoors.
Signs to test now
- A change in taste, smell or color.
- Staining in toilets, tubs or laundry.
- Cloudiness after heavy rain or flooding.
- A water heater filling with scale.
Book a well test
Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974. Jorge tests the well, explains the results and recommends a system only if it fits.
https://www.northmiamifl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/23256/Water-Quality-Report-2025-PDF
https://www.floridahealth.gov/community-environmental-public-health/environmental-public-health/water-quality/drinking-water/private-wells/
https://www.miamidade.gov/global/water/conservation/outdoor-water-restrictions.page
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist