Understanding Detected, Median, and Range Values in Sedgwick County Sampling
Detected Iron in Area Aquifer Samples
Out of 275 total groundwater samples collected from 27 wells within Sedgwick County's 112PLSC aquifer between 2010 and 2016, iron was detected in 31 instances. Detected means the instrument measured iron at a certain level; it does not indicate a violation or that the iron concentration poses a problem.
Median Iron Concentration
The median iron concentration recorded in these samples was 320 micrograms per liter (ug/L). The median is the middle value in the data set, indicating that half the detected samples are above and half are below this concentration.
Range of Iron Concentration
The range extended from a low of 0.6 ug/L to a high of 970 ug/L within the sampled wells. These concentrations are all within federal threshold limits, meaning none exceeded any regulatory limits for safety.
Sources of Iron and Hardness in Groundwater of Sedgwick County
Natural Geological Contributions
Iron typically originates from natural mineral deposits that dissolve into groundwater as it moves through soil and rock layers. Hardness in water primarily results from dissolved calcium and magnesium minerals present in the aquifer.
Depth Influence on Water Composition
The sampled wells ranged in depth from 25 to 248 feet. Variations in depth can affect mineral content, with deeper wells sometimes showing different iron and hardness levels due to geochemical changes underground.
Distinguishing Secondary Aesthetic Standards from Health-Based Limits
Secondary Standards Govern Taste, Staining, and Corrosion
Iron and hardness are subject to secondary standards focused on water appearance, taste, and potential for staining plumbing fixtures. These are not health-based limits and exceeding them does not imply unsafe water.
Federal Thresholds and Safety
According to the USGS sampling data for Sedgwick County, all iron levels detected are below federal thresholds established for safety, indicating the water is within acceptable health limits.
Considerations for Different Household Water Needs
Larger Households
Households with higher water usage may need systems capable of handling greater grain capacities to effectively manage iron and hardness treatment over time.
Second Homes and Seasonal Properties
Properties with intermittent use should factor in maintenance and water quality testing to address any mineral buildup or changes that could affect water quality during downtime.
Sampling Scope and Reliability of Area Data
Quantity and Diversity of Samples
The iron data for Sedgwick County is based on 275 samples from 27 wells spread across the region, providing a broad view but not a specific test of any single household's water.
Limitations of Regional Data for Individual Wells
While useful for understanding typical regional water quality, this data cannot replace a test of your own water supply. Individual wells may have different iron and hardness levels due to local geological conditions.
Testing Your Water
To confirm your household's specific iron and hardness levels, water testing is essential. This data can guide the correct sizing and configuration of a treatment system.
Addressing Iron and Hardness in Sedgwick County Homes
The C-Series Iron + Hard Water (Well) System ships ready to configure for residential use. It provides a grain capacity of 32,000 to accommodate common iron and hardness levels found in the area according to government sampling. Choosing this system offers a documented approach to treating your household water once your specific water tests define your actual concentrations.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2016-09-15. 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 112PLSC aquifer (Sedgwick County): 275 results from 27 wells, median 320.0 ug/L, range 0.6-970.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold