Pentair Uranium & Radium System

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1. Interpreting Laboratory Reports for Uranium-Radium Alpha Particle Activity

When you receive a water quality report measuring alpha particle activity related to uranium and radium, the numbers reflect picocuries per liter (pCi/L). This activity results from radioactive decay of these elements in groundwater. In Oakland County's aquifer 112SDGV, U.S. Geological Survey sampling between August and September 2016 found results ranging from -0.5 to 6.7 pCi/L, with a median near 0.55 pCi/L. All detected values were below federal regulatory thresholds. It is important to note that these figures describe measurements from multiple wells in the area and do not directly indicate the status of your own water source.

2. Evaluating These Measurements Against Federal Standards—and What They Don’t Indicate

The federal maximum contaminant level for combined uranium and radium alpha particle activity is set to protect public health. None of the samples collected in this area exceeded that limit. Detecting alpha particle activity is common because uranium and radium naturally occur in groundwater, especially in aquifers with certain geological characteristics. Detection does not imply a violation or unsafe condition on an individual basis. Your own water’s safety and quality depend on specific testing of your household supply.

3. Considering Sample and Well Depth in Relation to Expected Uranium-Radium Levels

The sampled wells ranged in depth from 38 to 172 feet. Well depth can influence the concentration of uranium and radium since deeper groundwater often interacts differently with surrounding rock formations. If your well depth is significantly different or taps a separate aquifer layer, your uranium and radium levels may differ. Understanding your water source’s depth and geology is a critical part of assessing potential concerns.

4. Identifying Which Household Fixtures and Appliances Might Show Effects First

Uranium and radium activity primarily affects water consumed for drinking and cooking, but these elements do not produce immediate taste or odor changes. Appliances that use water directly, such as ice makers or coffee machines, may accumulate trace amounts over time, potentially affecting their longevity. Treatment that reduces uranium and radium can help maintain appliance function and provide peace of mind for safe water use.

5. Matching Treatment Capacity to Your Household's Water Usage Needs

The Pentair Uranium & Radium System offers a grain capacity of 32,000 grains, which is a measure related to the quantity of uranium and radium that can be effectively removed before media replacement or recharge is necessary. Evaluating your daily water consumption alongside this capacity helps determine how long the system will perform efficiently in your home. Proper sizing ensures consistent reduction of uranium and radium levels to help maintain water quality.

Conclusion: Testing Your Water to Confirm the Need for Treatment

The essential step to resolving concerns about uranium and radium in your water is to have a certified laboratory conduct a specific uranium and radium test on your own well or supply line. This test will clarify your water’s activity level compared to federal guidelines and determine if treatment is advisable. If elevated levels are confirmed, a Pentair Uranium & Radium System ships ready to configure and can be purchased directly to address those uranium and radium concerns effectively.

Where this information comes from

Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2016-09-13. 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 Alpha particle in the 112SDGV aquifer (Oakland County): 22 results from 11 wells, median 0.55 pCi/L, range -0.5-6.7 pCi/L; none above any federal threshold