Regional Iron Levels in Brevard County Aquifer
The U.S. Geological Survey conducted groundwater sampling of the Brevard County aquifer, measuring iron levels in four separate wells during November 2019. These wells ranged in depth from 93 to 115 feet. Iron was detected in all samples with a median concentration of 1158.5 micrograms per liter (ug/L) and a range spanning from 21.2 to 3810.0 ug/L. It is important to note that none of these measurements exceeded any federal thresholds, confirming that, at the regional level, iron concentrations in the aquifer do not surpass regulatory standards.
These results provide a regional perspective on iron presence in the water source but do not directly describe the iron concentration in any individual household’s water supply. Determining the specific iron content of your home’s water requires testing your own well or tap water, as local variations can occur even within the same aquifer.
Effects of Iron and Hard Water on Household Plumbing and Appliances
Hard water contains elevated levels of calcium and magnesium salts, which can cause scale buildup inside pipes and reduce the efficiency of water heaters and appliances. Iron, often found alongside hardness minerals, can cause aesthetic issues such as reddish staining on sinks, tubs, and laundry, and may impart undesirable taste or odor to the water.
While iron detected within regional aquifer samples is below federal limits, the presence of iron combined with hard water minerals can still impact the appearance and function of household water systems. Treating both challenges effectively can help extend the lifespan of plumbing and appliances, as well as improve water quality for everyday use.
What You Need to Know About Testing Your Water
Because aquifer data reflects a general area rather than individual household wells or municipal supplies, personal water testing is essential. Comprehensive testing should measure:
- Iron concentration to identify any localized variations above regional medians.
- Water hardness, typically expressed in grains per gallon or milligrams per liter, to confirm the scale-forming potential.
- Additional parameters such as pH or total dissolved solids, which influence water chemistry and treatment needs.
Understanding your own water profile supports informed decision-making about treatment options tailored to your household requirements.
How Water Softening Technology Can Address Hard Water and Iron
Water softeners are proven to reduce hardness minerals, improving water quality and preventing scale buildup. Some softening systems also address iron present in water, typically through ion exchange mechanisms that remove dissolved iron alongside calcium and magnesium.
The WSP Whole House 1,2,3-TCP Reduction System ships ready to configure with technology that can handle combined hardness and iron concerns. Selecting an appropriate softening system depends on your specific water test results and treatment goals, including iron levels and hardness severity.
Making an Informed Choice for Your Home
When choosing between equipment classes to manage hard water and iron, consider:
- Your tested iron concentration relative to regional benchmarks.
- The hardness level and its effects on plumbing and appliances.
- The capability of the treatment technology to reduce both hardness and iron effectively.
- Flexibility and readiness of the system you select to integrate into your home water setup.
Evaluating these factors ensures that your selected solution addresses your household’s water quality challenges comprehensively and reliably.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. 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.
The documented solution
- ✓ 90-Day Money-BackNo restocking fees — return within 90 days.
- ✓ Manufacturer WarrantyGenuine Fleck · Pentair · VIQUA equipment.
- ✓ Free Expert SizingTalk to a specialist and buy the right system the first time.