Pentair Chromium-6 Filter

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Understanding What the UCMR3 Survey Tells Franklin County Households

The Goal of UCMR3 Monitoring

The Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR3) survey sampled public water systems nationwide to detect contaminants including chromium-6. For the Columbus Ohio Water System serving Franklin County, measurements recorded chromium-6 levels from 0.03 to 0.35 micrograms per liter (µg/L or parts per billion).

Limits of UCMR3 Data for Individual Homes

These results reflect public system averages and do not specify the chromium-6 concentration at any particular household tap. Testing your own water is necessary to know the precise chromium(VI) level inside your home.

Sources of Hexavalent Chromium: Geology Versus Industry

Geogenic Chromium-6 From Aquifers

Hexavalent chromium can occur naturally in groundwater through geological formations, especially in alkaline or arid aquifer conditions. Franklin County's surface water source is less likely influenced by naturally elevated chromium(VI) compared to groundwater sources.

Industrial Contributions to Chromium(VI)

Chromium-6 is also associated with industrial processes such as metal plating. However, the public water system record for Columbus in Franklin County shows no exceedances of total chromium limits nor health-based violations specifically due to chromium-6.

How Ion Exchange and Reverse Osmosis Tackle Chromium(VI) Differently

Ion Exchange Method

Ion exchange selectively targets chromium(VI) ions in water, effectively capturing them on resin media. This method can treat chromium-6 continuously but needs periodic maintenance to restore resin capacity.

Reverse Osmosis Approach

Reverse osmosis uses a semipermeable membrane to filter out chromium-6 along with other dissolved solids. While comprehensive, it typically involves processing smaller volumes of water and higher maintenance demands.

Fixtures and Water Uses Impacted First by Chromium(VI)

Drinking and Cooking Water

Water used directly for consumption is most critical to address chromium-6 levels. Ensuring these outlets provide treated water is a priority.

Shower and Bath

While skin exposure to chromium(VI) is less of a regulatory concern, some households prefer reducing chromium-6 exposure in bathing water for comfort and peace of mind.

Appliances and Laundry

Chromium compounds can sometimes affect appliances or cause staining. Treatment typically focuses on primary drinking water points but may extend to whole-house solutions if desired.

Maintenance Rhythm for the Pentair Chromium-6 Filter

Periodic Filter Media Replacement

The Pentair Chromium-6 Filter uses ion exchange resin needing replacement after a period or water volume threshold to maintain performance against hexavalent chromium.

Simple Configuration for Home Use

The system ships ready to configure with household plumbing, allowing for user setup without specialized help.

Regular Water Testing Recommended

To ensure chromium(VI) levels remain controlled, periodic testing of household water is advisable, especially after filter media changes or changes in water source.

Government monitoring for the Columbus public water system serving Franklin County found chromium-6 detectable consistently at levels below any federal maximum contaminant level. This data covers the public supply but not individual household plumbing or well water. For detailed official information, consult the EPA's SDWIS public water system records on their website.

Where this information comes from

Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2014-12-16. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.

On record: EPA UCMR3 monitoring (2013-2015) for Columbus (OH2504412), OH: 40 results across 2 listed contaminants, 37 detections above the reporting level; no federal MCL for hexavalent chromium; total chromium MCL 100 ug/L