Belief: Chloride Levels in Groundwater Pose a Uniform Threat Across Wells
It is often assumed that all wells in Bolivar County contain high chloride levels that require the same treatment approach. The U.S. Geological Survey sampled wells in this area's aquifer, finding chloride concentrations ranging narrowly from 0.82 to 1.31 mg/L with a median of 0.88 mg/L. These samples, collected at depths around 64 feet, indicate consistent low chloride presence, well below any federal treatment thresholds. This regional data suggests variability in water quality can exist between wells, and generalized treatment may not align with individual well conditions.
Belief: Total Well Water Treatment is Similar to Managing Other Water Quality Issues
People sometimes confuse total well water treatment with solutions for different problems like hardness or microbial contamination. Total well water treatment specifically addresses treatment of the entire water supply from a well, focusing on constituents such as low-level chloride that may impact taste, staining, or corrosion over time. It is distinct from water softening or filtration targeting iron, sediments, or microorganisms. Recognizing this distinction is key to selecting appropriate technology.
Belief: Laboratory Reports Simply Confirm Presence or Absence of a Constituent
Certified laboratory testing reports provide detailed measurements for constituents like chloride. For Bolivar County’s aquifer, tests show measurable chloride in every sample but never approaching a level of concern. Reports include concentration in milligrams per liter (mg/L) and compare these to reporting limits and regulatory thresholds. Importantly, detection does not imply a violation or safety risk. Knowing how to interpret median values and ranges helps homeowners understand what treatment, if any, may be justified.
Belief: Treatment Capacity is Only About Maximum Grain Ratings
Sizing treatment systems involves more than selecting the highest grain capacity. The Pentair Total Well Chlorination System, with a grain capacity of 32,000, must be matched to the household’s daily water use and specific water quality characteristics. Accurate sizing means estimating daily water demand and considering peak usage patterns. This ensures the system effectively addresses the volume of water needing treatment without over- or under-capacity.
Belief: Treatment Decisions Can Be Made Without Detailed Water and Usage Records
Before deciding on a treatment approach, it is crucial to document key details: well depth, recent laboratory test results, daily water usage, and any known water issues. This information supports an informed purchase and proper system configuration. Without it, the effectiveness of a treatment system may be compromised due to misalignment with actual conditions.
Belief: Plumbing Material and Age Do Not Affect Water Treatment Needs
While water source quality is fundamental, the plumbing system’s characteristics also influence treatment decisions. Older plumbing materials can interact with water differently, sometimes exacerbating issues like corrosion or staining. These concerns require consideration separate from source water analysis, affecting the choice and configuration of treatment equipment.
In summary, the U.S. Geological Survey’s sampling in Bolivar County’s aquifer consistently shows low chloride levels at moderate depths, with no measurements exceeding regulatory thresholds. This regional data provides a reliable context but does not substitute for testing individual wells. Homeowners should collect well-specific lab data and usage details to properly size solutions like the Pentair Total Well Chlorination System, which ships ready to configure for residential needs. For further details on groundwater data, visit the U.S. Geological Survey monitoring location at waterdata.usgs.gov.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2017-09-28. 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 Chloride in the aquifer (Bolivar County): 4 results from 1 wells, median 0.88 mg/L, range 0.82-1.31 mg/L; none above any federal threshold
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