Interpreting Iron Data from Worcester County Wells in Aquifer 112CLMB
Median iron concentration seen in groundwater samples
Government sampling in Worcester County's aquifer 112CLMB found a median iron concentration of 2970 micrograms per liter (ug/L) across ten results from four wells. This median represents the middle value measured in these tests, giving a practical reference point for the range residents might expect in this area.
Range of iron concentrations observed in local wells
The iron levels detected ranged from 224 ug/L to 10,400 ug/L among wells that were between 13 and 55 feet deep. This variation shows how iron presence can differ significantly even within the same aquifer across the county.
No federal safety thresholds exceeded
All results stayed below any federal limit for iron in drinking water. Detection of iron does not automatically mean the water is unsafe; rather, these figures are important for understanding potential taste, staining, or hardness effects.
Additional Questions Commercial or Industrial Users Consider
Impact of iron on equipment and processing
Large-scale water users typically assess iron’s potential to cause scaling, clog pipes, or affect manufacturing processes beyond household concerns.
Regulatory reporting and compliance needs
Commercial systems often require routine testing documentation to meet local or federal regulations, which is not generally mandatory for private homes.
Water hardness interactions with iron
For industrial users, hardness can influence treatment methods and water chemistry balance, requiring more detailed analysis than most residential households undertake.
Consequences of Untreated Iron and Hardness in Residential Water
Staining and discoloration of plumbing fixtures and laundry
Over time, iron deposits can cause red, orange, or brown stains on sinks, toilets, and clothing.
Build-up inside water-using appliances
Hardness minerals combined with iron can accumulate in water heaters and dishwashers, reducing efficiency and lifespan.
Possible metallic taste or odor in drinking water
Though not a health risk at these levels, iron can affect water taste, which some find unpleasant.
Water Changes After Treating Iron and Hardness with the C-Series System
Reduction of visible staining
The C-Series Iron + Hard Water (Well) System, which ships ready to configure with a 32,000-grain capacity, is designed to lower iron concentrations, minimizing stains on fixtures and laundry.
Softer water feel and improved appliance performance
By addressing hardness alongside iron, this system leads to water that feels smoother and reduces scaling inside appliances.
Consistent water quality from the tap
Households using the system can expect more reliable water quality, with fewer aesthetic issues caused by iron and hardness.
Why Aesthetic Secondary Standards Are Different from Health-Based Limits for Iron
Purpose of secondary standards
Iron is regulated under aesthetic secondary standards, which focus on appearance, taste, and staining rather than health risks.
Health-based limits are more stringent and distinct
No federal health-based violations were recorded in the sampled wells; thus, iron levels indicated are not linked to health concerns but to cosmetic and practical impacts.
How this informs homeowner decisions
Understanding that iron detection does not equate to a health hazard helps homeowners prioritize treatment options based on comfort and maintenance needs.
Summary of the Worcester County Aquifer 112CLMB Iron Sampling Record
These observations are based on ten government samples from four separate wells in Worcester County, aquifer 112CLMB, collected between 2011 and 2024. For detailed information, refer to the U.S. Geological Survey groundwater monitoring data for this location.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2024-08-13. 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 112CLMB aquifer (Worcester County): 10 results from 4 wells, median 2970.0 ug/L, range 224.0-10400.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold