Step 1: Recognize the Implications of Untreated Total Dissolved Solids Over Time
When total dissolved solids (TDS) in well water remain unaddressed for years, homeowners may notice gradual taste changes, mild staining on fixtures, or potential effects on plumbing materials, especially as TDS influences water's aesthetic qualities. These changes do not indicate health risks but can affect water appearance and user experience. This is particularly relevant in complete well systems where untreated water circulates throughout the household.
Step 2: Understand How TDS Enters Groundwater in New Castle County
In New Castle County, TDS in aquifers arises naturally from dissolved minerals in soil and rock layers. The U.S. Geological Survey's groundwater sampling data from local wells 10 to 24 feet deep reflects these natural geological contributions. Human activities can also influence TDS levels, but the primary source is the interaction between water and surrounding geological formations.
Step 3: Consider Differences for Large Households, Second Homes, or Seasonal Properties
Water use patterns affect how TDS-related issues manifest. Larger households with higher water consumption may experience more pronounced aesthetic effects or require treatment systems with greater capacity. In contrast, second homes or seasonal properties may experience less frequent water use, which can influence water quality stability and system performance over time.
Step 4: What a Certified Lab Test for TDS Reveals and How to Interpret It
A certified laboratory test measures the TDS concentration in your specific well water, reported in milligrams per liter (mg/L). Unlike general area data, this test reflects your well’s actual conditions. While New Castle County aquifer samples have a median of 108.5 mg/L TDS with a range from 0.1 to 929.0 mg/L, your well water may differ. Lab results above 500 mg/L TDS point to a threshold where taste or staining effects may occur but do not indicate a health concern.
Step 5: The Logical Order to Narrow Down TDS Causes, From Basic Checks to Lab Testing
Begin by checking for visible signs like staining or taste changes inside your home’s water system. Verify water source details and usage to exclude temporary factors. If observations suggest elevated TDS effects, proceed to obtain a certified lab analysis of your well water to quantify TDS concentration accurately. This stepwise approach helps confirm the need for treatment.
Closing: What Not to Conclude from Area TDS Data Alone
While U.S. Geological Survey data provides valuable regional insights, it does not establish the exact conditions in your household well. Detection and concentration ranges reflect samples from multiple wells, not one specific source. Therefore, do not assume your water quality or treatment necessity solely based on area measurements. A precise well water test is essential to select the appropriate class of treatment.
For comprehensive treatment of a complete well’s water properties, the Fleck Complete Well System ships ready to configure and offers 32,000-grain capacity to manage site-specific water characteristics efficiently.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2019-12-04. 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 aquifer (New Castle County): 36 results from 8 wells, median 108.5 mg/L, range 0.1-929.0 mg/L; 6 above an AESTHETIC secondary standard only (secondary standard 500.0 mg/L (aesthetic)) - not a health finding
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