Fleck Metallic-Tasting Water Filter

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How Manganese Enters Groundwater in Shelby County Aquifer 124MMPS

In Shelby County, Tennessee, the metallic taste some households notice relates largely to manganese naturally present in the aquifer 124MMPS. Manganese is an element found in soil and rock formations that can dissolve into groundwater over time through natural processes of weathering and mineral dissolution. The U.S. Geological Survey sampled 50 separate wells between 76 and 1140 feet deep across this aquifer, detecting manganese in 213 out of 233 samples collected from 2010 to 2026. The results showed a median concentration of 9.49 micrograms per liter (µg/L), with individual well samples ranging from 0.13 to 309.0 µg/L. It is important to note that none of these manganese levels exceeded federal thresholds, which means none measured were above the regulatory limits set for health concerns. However, manganese can influence taste and appearance even at lower levels, which may explain the metallic taste reported in some residential water supplies.

Differences for Large, Secondary, or Seasonal Household Water Use

Larger households or those with multiple residences or seasonal usage patterns may experience the metallic taste issue differently. For example, larger daily water consumption increases total manganese exposure, potentially intensifying taste perception in tap water. Seasonal homes may notice changes depending on groundwater fluctuations or well recharge cycles affecting manganese concentration. Because manganese can accumulate or settle in plumbing over periods of low use, occasional water stagnation may also influence taste. Considering these factors is important when deciding the treatment capacity needed for your specific household water demand.

Fixtures, Appliances, or Processes Most Affected by Metallic Taste

Fixtures and appliances that rely on direct water contact, such as kitchen faucets, ice makers, and drinking water dispensers, are usually the first to reveal metallic taste impacts. This is due to the direct consumption or tasting of water without dilution. Water heaters and dishwashers may also be affected as manganese can settle or leave mineral films over time, altering water quality. The metallic taste typically does not affect all water uses equally; for instance, outdoor irrigation systems or toilets are less likely to show a difference because taste factors are not relevant.

Judging Treatment Capacity Against Daily Household Water Demand

Determining the right treatment capacity involves estimating your household's typical daily water use and matching it to the volume your chosen system can manage. Average residential water use varies but generally ranges between 80 to 100 gallons per person daily. Understanding this figure helps ensure the treatment technology you select can process enough water to maintain consistent removal or reduction of manganese and related metallic tastes without compromising flow rates or performance. This decision balances effective taste improvement with efficiency and practicality in meeting your household’s consumption patterns.

Example: Interpreting Shelby County Manganese Data for a Homeowner

Using the U.S. Geological Survey data, a homeowner may look at the median manganese level of 9.49 µg/L as a baseline expectation for average conditions in Shelby County. The wide range up to 309.0 µg/L indicates some wells may have considerably higher manganese presence, affecting taste more noticeably. Without testing their own water, a homeowner cannot know their specific manganese concentration. Therefore, testing is recommended to determine if the metallic taste correlates to elevated manganese levels in their well or supply. This data helps frame what is typical versus outlier conditions in the area.

Common Household Symptoms That Indicate and Rule Out Metallic Taste Issues

Signs that manganese might be causing metallic taste include unpleasant or unusual flavor changes mainly in drinking water, ice, or beverages prepared with tap water. Staining on fixtures or dark deposits in water containers may also occur. However, not all taste changes indicate manganese; other causes like plumbing corrosion or other minerals can create metallic sensations. Additionally, if metallic taste is limited to cold water only or sporadic, other factors outside manganese presence might be involved. Testing helps clarify the cause before selecting a treatment approach.

Once you have assessed your household water demand and identified metallic taste linked to manganese from testing, the Fleck Metallic-Tasting Water Filter ships ready to configure and offers a proven solution to reduce metallic tastes effectively. This system is designed to handle typical residential volumes, improving water taste by addressing manganese and associated water quality factors.

Where this information comes from

Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2026-06-05. 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 Manganese in the 124MMPS aquifer (Shelby County): 233 results from 50 wells, median 9.49 ug/L, range 0.13-309.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold