The U.S. Geological Survey groundwater sampling in Maricopa County's aquifer found calcium and magnesium minerals detected in all 17 samples taken from 9 wells between 2018 and 2024. These samples show a wide range of mineral concentrations, which influence water characteristics. None of the mineral concentrations exceeded federal health thresholds.
Distinguishing Dry Skin from Other Water-Related Issues
Dry skin related to water use is often confused with issues caused by contaminants or low water pH. Here, the focus is on mineral content that can leave residues reducing skin moisture, not on harmful substances or acidity. Minerals like calcium and magnesium contribute to water "hardness" which may affect skin feel after exposure.
Sample Size and Well Variety Behind Maricopa County Data
The reported figures summarize 17 samples from 9 wells, giving a modest but useful picture of the aquifer's mineral content. The wells sampled vary in depth from 30 to 1200 feet, providing data from different groundwater layers. However, as a limited sample set, these measurements represent trends rather than an exhaustive water profile for the entire county.
Meaning of Detected, Median, and Range in This Sampling Record
- Detected: Minerals were measured in every sample, meaning instruments found their presence, not that any was at a problematic level.
- Median: The middle value of all the measurements, 1220 mg/L, indicates a central tendency of mineral concentration in the sampled area.
- Range: Mineral levels varied widely, from 9.35 mg/L up to 4480 mg/L, illustrating natural variability in the aquifer.
Influence of Sample and Well Depth on Expected Water Quality
Shallow wells (around 30 feet) often draw water with different mineral levels than deep wells (up to 1200 feet). This variation affects the water chemistry experienced at a given site. Commercial facilities drawing from this aquifer should expect some fluctuation depending on their water source depth.
Fixtures and Processes Most Affected by Mineral Content
Water-contact surfaces where skin exposure is frequent—such as showers, restrooms, and handwashing stations—are generally the first to show effects related to mineral concentration. Minerals can leave residues that dry the skin or affect texture. Appliances like dishwashers and boilers also experience mineral deposits but are less relevant to skin conditions.
How Calcium and Magnesium Enter the Maricopa County Aquifer
Calcium and magnesium naturally dissolve from surrounding rock and soil into groundwater over time. In Maricopa County, the aquifer interacts with mineral-rich formations, resulting in the detected levels. This is a typical geologic process rather than contamination, consistent with groundwater quality patterns in arid regions.
To address dry skin issues in a commercial building drawing from this aquifer, testing on-site water is necessary for precise mineral assessment. For whole-building treatment, the 30 Steel Tanks - Twin Unit Skid commercial system skid provides a ready-to-configure solution designed to manage mineral-related water quality and mitigate associated skin dryness effects.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2024-12-17. 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 Hardness, Ca, Mg in the aquifer (Maricopa County): 17 results from 9 wells, median 1220.0 mg/L, range 9.35-4480.0 mg/L; none above any federal threshold
- ✓ 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.