How Iron Enters Groundwater in Lee County's Aquifer 230SDMR
Natural Soil and Rock Sources
Iron naturally occurs in the soils and rock layers that form Lee County's aquifer 230SDMR. Groundwater moves through these layers, dissolving iron compounds and carrying iron particles in the water.
Regional Sampling Results
U.S. Geological Survey sampling of 53 wells in this area found iron detected in 33 results, with concentrations ranging from 3.3 to 330 micrograms per liter (µg/L). The median concentration was 11.3 µg/L. These samples were taken from wells 60 to 370 feet deep between April and August 2012.
No Federal Thresholds Exceeded
None of the iron concentrations measured in these samples exceeded federal limits. This means the regional groundwater does not show iron levels considered to be a health risk under federal standards.
Additional Questions Commercial or Industrial Operators Consider
Water Volume and Flow Rates
Commercial or industrial users assess how iron bacteria might affect large-volume water use and equipment longevity differently than households.
Impact on Process Efficiency
Operators examine how iron bacteria could interfere with production processes, potentially requiring more frequent management or specialized treatment.
Impact of Plumbing Material and Age Separate from Source Water
Older Pipes and Corrosion Potential
Household plumbing with older metal pipes may contribute to iron presence through corrosion, which is unrelated to natural iron levels in source water.
Plastic and Newer Materials
Using plastic or newer piping reduces the risk that plumbing materials add iron to the water, helping to isolate iron bacteria presence to the source water.
Household Symptoms That Do and Do Not Indicate Iron Bacteria
Likely Indicators
- Clogged fixtures or slimy deposits on faucets and aerators
- Orange or reddish-brown staining on sinks, tubs, or laundry
- Metallic taste in drinking water
Symptoms Not Typically Linked to Iron Bacteria
- Cloudy water without color tint
- Unrelated odors such as chlorine or sulfur smells
- Fluctuations in water pressure from municipal supply issues
Long-Term Effects of Untreated Iron Bacteria in Residential Water
Pipe and Fixture Fouling
Over years, iron bacteria can form sticky slime that clogs household plumbing, decreasing water flow and requiring maintenance.
Staining and Appliance Impact
Continued presence may cause persistent staining on fixtures and laundry and affect appliances by promoting mineral deposits.
No Direct Health Threat Confirmed
While iron bacteria affects aesthetics and equipment, regional data show no federal health-based violation related to iron in Lee County groundwater.
Recommended Action: Testing Your Well Water
Order a Certified Laboratory Iron Bacteria Test
The single test that clarifies your home's water condition is a professional iron bacteria assessment specific to your well. This test distinguishes iron bacteria presence and concentration, providing a clear basis for treatment decisions.
If iron bacteria is confirmed at levels impacting water use or quality, the Autotrol Iron Bacteria & Slime Filter is a documented solution available for direct purchase. It ships ready to configure for home water systems, offering targeted control of iron bacteria and slime buildup.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2012-08-09. 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 Iron in the 230SDMR aquifer (Lee County): 53 results from 53 wells, median 11.3 ug/L, range 3.3-330.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold