Fleck Metallic-Tasting Water Filter

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If Your Laboratory Report Lists Manganese in Your Water Sample

When you look at a water test report for your household in El Paso County, CO, the reading may list manganese levels measured in micrograms per liter (ug/L). Government sampling within El Paso County’s aquifer 111ALVM, based on 160 samples from 50 different wells from 2013 to 2025, shows manganese levels ranging from 0.03 to 1780.0 ug/L with a median of 1.02 ug/L. Importantly, none of these samples exceeded federal safety thresholds. Detection of manganese is common but does not indicate a violation or unsafe water. This can help explain why some water tastes metallic without indicating a health hazard.

If You Wonder How Manganese Naturally Enters Groundwater in This Region

Manganese occurs naturally in soils and rocks, and its presence in the El Paso County aquifer 111ALVM results from geological processes that dissolve manganese-bearing minerals over time. The sampled wells, ranging in depth from 16 to 215 feet, reflect this natural background. This manganese can dissolve into groundwater, occasionally causing metallic taste sensations when water reaches household taps, depending on concentration and water chemistry. Knowing this natural source helps separate regional influences from plumbing or other causes.

If You Are a Commercial or Industrial Operator Considering Additional Water Concerns

In addition to metallic taste, commercial or industrial water users may also assess manganese levels for potential scaling or equipment staining. While households concentrate on taste and minor aesthetic impacts, commercial operators may need to consider manganese’s effect on processes or machinery. However, for residential users in El Paso County, the sampled manganese concentrations remain below federal limits, indicating typical regional levels without compliance concerns.

If You Want to Rule Out Causes of Metallic Taste Step-by-Step

The cheapest and simplest checks start with flushing taps and testing water from multiple household fixtures to see if metallic taste persists or varies by location inside the home. Next, consider plumbing age and materials since metals can leach from pipes or fixtures independently of source water. Finally, submit a laboratory water test specifically measuring manganese and other metals to confirm their presence and concentration. This stepwise approach helps distinguish whether metallic taste stems from natural groundwater manganese in El Paso County or household plumbing.

If You Suspect Plumbing Materials and Fixtures May Contribute to Taste

Older plumbing or certain fixture materials can release metals causing metallic taste independently of source water. Corrosion or mineral buildup inside pipes may alter taste even if manganese levels at the source are low. This means metallic taste could arise from local plumbing conditions. Consider the age and material of pipes and fixtures when interpreting taste issues. Testing water directly from the source, before it passes through household plumbing, provides clarity about the origin of metallic taste.

If You Plan to Seek Water Treatment Advice, What Information to Gather

• Record the exact manganese concentration from your laboratory report.
• Note the date and source point of sampling (e.g., kitchen tap, wellhead).
• List any plumbing characteristics, including age and materials used.
• Describe when and where metallic taste occurs within the house.

Providing this comprehensive information helps direct appropriate treatment recommendations and improves outcomes.

This summary is based on the U.S. Geological Survey’s groundwater data for El Paso County aquifer 111ALVM, which sampled 50 wells between 16 and 215 feet deep from 2013 to 2025. The data show manganese is commonly detected but remains below federal thresholds. For households experiencing metallic taste potentially linked to manganese, the Fleck Metallic-Tasting Water Filter ships ready to configure and is designed to address water taste issues caused by metals like manganese. Knowing your own water’s test results and plumbing context will guide effective use of this solution.

Where this information comes from

Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2025-12-18. 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 Manganese in the 111ALVM aquifer (El Paso County): 160 results from 50 wells, median 1.02 ug/L, range 0.03-1780.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold