Sizing Complete Well Water Treatment for Mohave County: Understanding Local Water Quality
1. Understanding Local Total Dissolved Solids Levels: Median and Range as Your Guide
If you notice changes in taste or water spots around your home’s faucets, your well water’s total dissolved solids (TDS) could be a factor. Government sampling of the Mohave County aquifer 330RDLL reports a median TDS concentration of about 886 mg/L, with values ranging from as low as 2.41 mg/L to as high as 2050 mg/L. These numbers come from six samples taken between 2012 and 2018 from wells approximately 3200 feet deep. The median offers a middle-ground expectation, while the range shows how much TDS can vary in this aquifer area.
2. Seasonal and Year-to-Year Variations Reflected in Area Sampling
The samples span nearly six years, revealing fluctuations in TDS concentrations over time. Such variation can be caused by natural changes in groundwater composition, climatic influences, or shifts in water table levels. Homeowners should note that water quality may not be stable year-round, which affects sizing decisions for a treatment system. Understanding these variations helps in planning a treatment solution that accommodates both typical and occasional peak TDS levels rather than a static target.
3. Considering Plumbing Material and Age Separately from Source Water Quality
While your home’s plumbing can influence water taste and appearance, this factor is distinct from the TDS levels found in your source water. For example, older pipes might contribute to discoloration or metal leaching, but they do not change dissolved solids in the aquifer. When sizing a treatment system, it is important to first focus on the water chemistry coming from your well before addressing plumbing concerns independently to ensure proper capacity and function.
4. Differences Between Public Water Records and Private Well Testing
Publicly available government data on aquifer water quality represent aggregated information for an area or system, but cannot specify the exact conditions of your well. Sampling points used for these measurements are not tests of your individual water supply. Private well testing is necessary to determine your home's specific water chemistry. Relying solely on public records might result in under- or overestimating the treatment capacity required for your usage.
5. Distinguishing Complete Well Water Quality from Similar Home Water Issues
Symptoms like scale buildup or staining can be caused by various water factors. Total dissolved solids influence taste and staining potential but are not an indicator of health risk or violation of safety standards. It is crucial not to confuse TDS-related aesthetic concerns with other water problems such as hardness, sediment, or contamination. Correct identification ensures that the selected treatment system fits your well's actual needs.
Final Step: Conduct a Comprehensive Private Well Water Test
The definitive way to size a complete well water treatment system is by obtaining a detailed analysis of your own well water chemistry. A qualified laboratory test measuring TDS and other relevant constituents will clarify the treatment capacity needed. Solutions like the Fleck Complete Well System are designed to handle capacities up to 32,000 grains, accommodating variable water quality. With accurate data from your well’s test, you can confidently choose a treatment system tailored to effectively manage your household’s water conditions.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2018-09-12. 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 330RDLL aquifer (Mohave County): 6 results from 1 wells, median 886.395 mg/L, range 2.41-2050.0 mg/L; 3 above an AESTHETIC secondary standard only (secondary standard 500.0 mg/L (aesthetic)) - not a health finding

