Perchlorate in Missoula Water: Sampling Insights and Treatment Choices for Households
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Sampling Scope and Interpretation for Mountain Water Company
The water supply system serving Missoula, MT, known as Mountain Water Company, relies on groundwater and connects roughly 28,000 homes. Between 2001 and 2005, the EPA’s Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR1) recorded 64 perchlorate samples from this system. None of these reported perchlorate levels above the 4.0 micrograms per liter reporting threshold. This limited number of samples gives a reasonable overview of the water system’s perchlorate presence but does not establish data for individual household water quality.
Understanding Sampling Terminology: Detection, Median, and Range
No perchlorate was detected above the reporting level in the sampled water, meaning the concentration, if present, was below 4.0 µg/L. In this context, terms like 'detected,' 'median,' and 'range' reflect measurement outcomes rather than health determinations. A 'non-detect' result means instruments did not identify perchlorate at or above the reporting threshold; it does not guarantee absolute absence. These definitions clarify the system-wide findings but cannot substitute for testing a residential supply directly.
Routine Care for the Fleck Perchlorate Filter
Households considering treatment options may evaluate the Fleck Perchlorate Filter, a system designed to reduce perchlorate in water. This equipment ships ready to configure and requires routine monitoring to maintain performance. The typical maintenance involves periodic checks of system settings and media replacement intervals based on water usage and quality. Staying consistent with these care steps ensures ongoing perchlorate reduction effectiveness.
Systematic Approach to Identifying Perchlorate Concerns
Before investing in treatment, start with the least complex actions. First, verify that noticeable changes in water quality are not due to plumbing materials or other common causes unrelated to perchlorate. Then, arrange for laboratory analysis of your home's specific water supply, as local variations exist despite system-wide sampling. Evaluating these factors sequentially helps clarify whether further treatment is warranted.
Impacted Household Fixtures and Usage
Perchlorate, when present, primarily affects drinking and cooking water due to ingestion pathways. Household fixtures such as kitchen faucets and drinking water taps are the primary points of concern. Appliances using water, such as ice makers or coffee machines, are also relevant since they may concentrate perchlorate residues. Understanding which outlets are most directly involved supports targeted testing and focused treatment where needed.
Final Recommended Test to Confirm Household Water Quality
The single most informative step is to have your residential water supply professionally tested specifically for perchlorate concentration. A laboratory result that quantifies perchlorate will confirm your home’s exposure level and guide whether the Fleck Perchlorate Filter or another solution is appropriate. This test outcome provides the definitive evidence to confidently decide on treatment.
Where this information comes from
Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2003-12-10. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.
On record: EPA UCMR1 monitoring (2001-2005) for MOUNTAIN WATER COMPANY (MT0000294), MT: 64 results across 1 listed contaminants, 0 detections above the reporting level; nothing detected above the method reporting level