Oxidation State Changes from Source to Tap
Hexavalent chromium presence in public water
Federal monitoring of the Auburn Water District, serving Androscoggin County residents, detected chromium-6 at levels measurable above the reporting threshold of 0.03 micrograms per litre (µg/L) in six out of eight samples between 2013 and 2015. These samples reflect chromium(VI) concentrations up to 0.105 µg/L (parts per billion). This figure shows that chromium-6 is present in the surface water supply before it reaches your tap.
No total chromium detected above reporting level
During the same monitoring period, total chromium was not detected above its higher reporting level of 0.2 µg/L in any sample. This suggests that hexavalent chromium, rather than trivalent chromium or other chromium forms, was primarily measured.
Sample Size and Interpretation of Data
Limited number of samples and implications
The dataset consists of eight chromium-6 results collected over several months from the Auburn Water District system. Such a small sample provides an initial indication of chromium(VI) presence but may not capture broader temporal or spatial variations.
Not a direct measure of household tap water
These values represent system-wide surface water sampling rather than any individual home's water quality. To accurately assess chromium-6 levels at your household tap, independent water testing specific to your location is recommended.
Potential Effects of Prolonged Hexavalent Chromium Presence
Understanding chromium-6 characteristics
Chromium-6 is known as hexavalent chromium or chromium(VI), a form of chromium that can influence water taste and stain plumbing fixtures at higher concentrations. Long-term exposure to elevated levels can have various effects, so homeowners often seek ways to reduce this constituent.
Importance of monitoring and treatment
Without addressing chromium-6 in household water, any aesthetic impacts or concerns about exposure may persist. Consistent monitoring and appropriate treatment can manage such risks effectively over time.
Chromium-6 Management Through Specialized Treatment Technology
How the C-Series filter handles chromium(VI)
The C-Series Chromium-6 Filter is documented to target chromium-6, reducing hexavalent chromium concentrations in household water supplies. This system uses advanced filtration technology designed for residential water treatment and ships ready to configure.
Beyond chromium-6
While this filter focuses on hexavalent chromium, it does not measure or adjust other water quality parameters. Homeowners should consider comprehensive water testing for a full picture before selecting treatment.
Essential Information for Treatment Consultation
Record current water sources and existing treatment
Write down whether your household draws from a private well or municipal supply, and note any existing water conditioning equipment.
Gather recent water test results
Because chromium-6 levels vary by location and time, obtain recent, site-specific laboratory testing of chromium-6 concentration in your tap water to guide treatment choices.
Role of Plumbing Material and Age
Plumbing materials do not affect chromium(VI) levels
Hexavalent chromium originates from the water source, not household plumbing. The type or age of pipes in your home does not increase or decrease chromium-6 concentrations.
Possible interaction with fixtures
However, plumbing materials may influence water taste or interact with other constituents. Addressing chromium-6 remains a separate consideration focused on source water treatment.
These observations rely on monitoring by the Auburn Water District serving Androscoggin County, ME, representing community surface water data collected 2013–2015. For more details, consult the Environmental Protection Agency's SDWIS public water system record for system ME0090070.
Where this information comes from
Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2014-08-11. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.
On record: EPA UCMR3 monitoring (2013-2015) for Auburn Water District (ME0090070), ME: 16 results across 2 listed contaminants, 6 detections above the reporting level; no federal MCL for hexavalent chromium; total chromium MCL 100 ug/L