Range of Iron Concentrations Compared to Federal Standards
Iron detected in most area samples without exceeding federal health thresholds
In Washington County's aquifer 112SDGVD, iron was detected in 78 out of 85 groundwater samples, with concentrations ranging from 3.3 to 11,800 micrograms per liter. None of these measures exceeded any federal health-based limits. This means the presence of iron is common in these groundwater sources but not considered a safety violation under federal guidelines.
Range indicates potential for visible iron and rust effects, not health risk
Iron at detectable levels can cause aesthetic issues such as rust-colored staining or metallic taste. The government data show a wide range, reflecting natural variability between wells and depths (25 to 249 feet). However, detection alone does not establish whether individual household water will show noticeable rust or iron staining.
Household Water Use and Property Type Considerations
Larger households may notice rust buildup more quickly
Higher daily water volume typical in large households can increase the accumulation of iron deposits in plumbing fixtures and appliances, intensifying rust spotting or filter clogging.
Second homes and seasonal use may see fluctuating iron effects
Properties used sporadically might experience changes in iron presence due to settling or oxidation during inactivity periods, affecting water clarity or staining when water use resumes.
How Fleck Orange Iron & Rust Stains Filter Addresses Iron
Removes iron responsible for staining and rust deposits
The Fleck System reduces iron content by filtering out the iron particles that cause rust stains and discoloration in water. It is designed to be ready to configure with household water setups.
Helps maintain appliance and fixture appearance and longevity
By reducing iron levels, this filtration technology can prevent iron buildup that damages or colors plumbing surfaces over time.
Differences Between Government Sampling and Private Well Testing
Government data represent regional aquifer characteristics, not individual wells
The USGS sampling covers wells within a broad area and depth range, providing median and range values that reflect typical iron occurrence but do not substitute for testing any specific well.
Private well testing is necessary to confirm actual household iron levels
Testing your own water source is essential to identify exact iron concentration and to determine the need and appropriate scale of treatment.
Seasonal and Multi-Year Changes in Iron Levels from Sampling Dates
Sampling spans from 2010 to 2026, showing consistent iron detection
The long-term record demonstrates iron presence across many years, indicating a persistent characteristic of the aquifer rather than a temporary condition.
Fluctuations in concentration reflect natural variability over time
Variation in iron levels over seasons and years occurs due to factors like water table changes, recharge patterns, and aquifer chemistry.
Additional Questions for Commercial or Industrial Water Use
Higher volume demands affect treatment sizing and maintenance frequency
Commercial or industrial operators must consider the scale needed to remove iron effectively from larger water supplies to prevent equipment damage or process disruption.
Regulatory standards and monitoring may be more stringent for non-residential use
Businesses might face additional water quality requirements beyond those covering residential properties, influencing treatment selection and documentation.
Conclusions: What Washington County Iron Data Do Not Determine
Government sampling data for aquifer 112SDGVD show iron is commonly present but do not specify the iron concentration in any individual household well. Detection is not a violation or an unsafe condition; it simply indicates iron occurs naturally in this groundwater. To understand whether iron or rust affects your home’s water, you need to have your own water tested. The Fleck Orange Iron & Rust Stains Filter provides a practical solution for reducing iron-related staining and rust, ready to configure for residential water treatment needs.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2026-04-15. 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 112SDGVD aquifer (Washington County): 85 results from 22 wells, median 1185.0 ug/L, range 3.3-11800.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold
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