1. Clarifying What Total Dissolved Solids Levels Indicate and Do Not Indicate
In your area, the U.S. Geological Survey has sampled groundwater from 18 wells in aquifer 112DFSF between 2017 and 2025. These tests show that total dissolved solids (TDS) ranged widely, with a median concentration of 138 mg/L. The range extended from a very low 0.04 mg/L up to 6,600 mg/L. Out of 168 sample results, none were below the detection limit, meaning TDS was consistently measurable.
It’s important to understand that TDS measures the combined content of dissolved substances in water but does not pinpoint specific contaminants. Additionally, 43 of these tests recorded TDS above a 500 mg/L secondary standard, a threshold established for aesthetic concerns like taste and staining—not a health or safety limit. Therefore, simply detecting TDS above this threshold does not mean the water is unsafe or legally noncompliant.
2. Implications for Larger Households, Second Homes, and Seasonal Properties
Household size and usage patterns can influence how water quality challenges are perceived. For larger families, total water demand increases, possibly highlighting taste or buildup issues linked to elevated TDS levels more quickly than for smaller households. In second or seasonal homes, water sitting unused over long periods may concentrate dissolved solids through evaporation or cause deposits in pipes, which sometimes mimics well water problems.
These factors mean that water treatment needs and observations about well water can vary based on your specific household circumstances, even within the same regional water quality profile.
3. What the Sample Size and Well Depth Distribution Mean for Your Well Water Understanding
The USGS data come from 168 results taken from 18 wells, ranging in depth from 10 to 80 feet. This scope provides a reasonable picture of groundwater conditions across the aquifer zone but does not guarantee your own well’s water chemistry matches these figures. Individual well water can vary due to differences in depth, local geology, and nearby influences.
Because sampling includes multiple wells over multiple years, it offers a stable median TDS reference point but cannot substitute for a certified lab test of your specific well water to determine exact conditions.
4. Comparing This Area’s Groundwater Record with Adjacent Counties
When examining well water data in neighboring counties or aquifers, note that variations in geology and human activities affect total dissolved solids differently. Comparing median values can show general trends but avoid assuming your conditions will align with either the FIPS 180 record or its neighbors. Regional data are guides but do not prescribe individual water quality.
Consulting local data ensures awareness of broad regional parameters without overinterpreting what those parameters mean for your well water.
5. Symptoms in Your Home That Do and Do Not Indicate a Total Dissolved Solids Concern
Common complaints such as taste issues, mineral deposits on fixtures, or staining may suggest elevated total dissolved solids or related mineral content. However, symptoms like water discoloration, cloudiness, or unusual odors are often caused by factors unrelated to TDS, such as bacterial presence or iron content—none of which is measured directly by TDS.
Seeing these symptoms means testing your water is important to diagnose the root cause accurately rather than assuming TDS alone is responsible.
What Should NOT Be Concluded From Regional Groundwater Data Alone
Data from government sampling in your area provide valuable context, but do not establish the quality of your individual well water. Detection of total dissolved solids—even above secondary aesthetic thresholds—does not indicate a health risk or a violation. To truly understand water quality, it is essential to conduct a certified analysis of your household water.
For addressing concerns linked to dissolved solids, the Fleck Complete Well System offers a tailored solution designed to manage a capacity of 32,000 grains and accommodate typical residential demands. This system ships ready to configure, allowing you to take control of your water treatment needs based on verified water conditions.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2025-11-21. 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 Total dissolved solids in the 112DFSF aquifer (FIPS 180): 168 results from 18 wells, median 138.0 mg/L, range 0.04-6600.0 mg/L; 43 above an AESTHETIC secondary standard only (secondary standard 500.0 mg/L (aesthetic)) - not a health finding
- ✓ 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.