Understanding Regional Data and Aesthetic Versus Health-Based Standards
Area sampling shows arsenic detected but below federal thresholds
Government sampling from two wells in Houston County’s aquifer 124EOCN found arsenic levels ranging from 0.07 to 0.17 micrograms per liter with a median of 0.13 µg/L. None of these results exceeded health-based federal limits for arsenic in drinking water.
Aesthetic secondary standards guide taste and staining concerns, not safety limits
Arsenic does not have aesthetic secondary standards because it primarily affects health at higher levels, so taste or discoloration issues are not relevant indicators for arsenic presence.
Additional Considerations for Commercial or Industrial Water Users
Higher water volume demands can affect treatment system sizing
Unlike household use, commercial or industrial operations need to consider larger flow rates and continuous usage, which impact equipment capacity and maintenance frequency.
Regulatory compliance may include periodic reporting and more detailed water testing
Businesses might need to meet regulatory requirements beyond household standards, requiring more frequent arsenic monitoring and documentation.
Preparing Your Household for Treatment Advice
Obtain a current, specific arsenic concentration test from your own well or tap
Area sampling provides background but does not reflect your water’s actual arsenic level. A certified laboratory test is essential for informed treatment decisions.
Record well depth and type along with sampling date
Arsenic levels vary by well depth and source; noting this information helps tailor treatment recommendations.
Note any water quality reports from your local utility if on a public supply
Public water systems publish annual reports that include arsenic data relevant to their distribution area.
Adjustments for Larger Households, Secondary Residences, or Seasonal Properties
Consider treatment equipment capacity based on peak and average water use
Houses with multiple occupants or variable water usage patterns need appropriately sized systems to maintain arsenic removal efficiency.
Plan for periods of non-use in seasonal homes to avoid water quality changes
Water sitting in pipes during vacancy can affect treatment device performance and water safety when reoccupied.
Sources of Arsenic in Houston County Groundwater
Natural geologic formations contribute arsenic to the aquifer 124EOCN
Arsenic is naturally present in sediments and rocks in this region and can dissolve into groundwater over time.
Shallow well depths sampled (48–49 feet) may reflect local geochemical conditions
Depth influences arsenic concentration; deeper or shallower wells could have different levels.
Final Step: Testing Your Water for Arsenic
The only way to know your household’s arsenic exposure is to request a specific arsenic test from a certified laboratory for your water source. If results show arsenic at or near concerns, the C-Series Arsenic Filter is documented to reduce arsenic effectively, shipping ready to configure for home use.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2023-09-11. 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 Arsenic in the 124EOCN aquifer (Houston County): 3 results from 2 wells, median 0.13 ug/L, range 0.07-0.17 ug/L; none above any federal threshold