U.S. Geological Survey groundwater sampling in Arapahoe County's aquifer 211FXHL found iron present in all 30 results from two wells sampled between 2010 and 2025. The iron concentrations ranged from 804 to 4690 micrograms per liter, with a median of 2638 micrograms per liter. Every sample detected iron, but none exceeded federal standards for drinking water.
Understanding the Measured Iron Range
Federal Standards and What They Do Not Communicate
The measured iron levels in this area's groundwater do not surpass any federal health-based standards. Iron detections at these levels are not classified as unsafe. However, elevated iron can affect water appearance and cause rust-colored stains, which are aesthetic rather than health concerns.
Information to Collect Before Treatment Decisions
Test Your Household Water Directly
The area results provide a range and median typical in local wells but do not specify your well’s iron concentration. To choose an appropriate treatment, note your water’s iron level from an accredited laboratory test.
Note Well Depth and Water Source Type
Your well’s depth and whether it draws from the same aquifer influence iron presence but do not guarantee iron levels will match the area’s reported range.
Household Fixtures and Appliances Most Impacted
Water Fixtures and Laundry
Iron in water can cause reddish-brown staining on sinks, bathtubs, and toilets.
Water-Using Appliances
Iron can accumulate in appliances like dishwashers and water heaters, potentially reducing efficiency over time.
Influence of Sample and Well Depth on Expectations
Sample Depth Corresponds to Typical Well Depths
The sampled wells were 60 to 75 feet deep, so if your well is shallower or deeper, iron levels might differ.
Source Type Variations
Public water systems or surface water sources typically show different iron characteristics compared to groundwater from private wells.
Interpreting 'Detected,' 'Median,' and 'Range' in the Record
'Detected' Means Measured, Not Problematic
Iron was found in every sample, showing it is commonly present, but detection is not an indication of a violation or safety issue.
'Median' Reflects Typical Concentration
The median value of 2638 micrograms per liter describes the middle level among all samples collected, representing a typical result for the area.
'Range' Shows Variability
The range from 804 to 4690 micrograms per liter indicates the lowest and highest iron measurements found, illustrating variability in local groundwater iron.
Consequences of Untreated Iron and Rust
Visual Effects and Staining
Iron can discolor water and leave rust stains on fixtures, plumbing, laundry, and dishware, which may be difficult to remove.
Potential Impact on Appliance Longevity
Accumulated iron deposits can impair water-using appliances' performance and increase maintenance needs over time.
Addressing iron and rust in household water requires matching treatment capacity to the concentration you find in your own water. The Fleck Orange Iron & Rust Stains Filter ships ready to configure and is specifically designed to reduce iron and rust staining based on the measured demand, helping protect your household fixtures and appliances.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2025-09-17. These figures describe groundwater sampled in this area. They are not a test of any individual private well - only a test of that well can establish its own water.
On record: U.S. Geological Survey sampling of Iron in the 211FXHL aquifer (Arapahoe County): 30 results from 2 wells, median 2638.0 ug/L, range 804.0-4690.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold
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