The U.S. Geological Survey sampled groundwater in Grafton County's aquifer 112SRFD, finding specific conductance measurements ranging from 101.0 to 272.0 microSiemens per centimeter in wells 73 to 174 feet deep. This set of six results from three wells shows no federal health violation, reflecting typical local aquifer water quality—not specific conditions of any individual household well.
Belief: Sediment levels are consistent regardless of well depth or source type
Actually, well depth and the nature of the water source influence sediment presence. In Grafton County, sampled wells varied in depth, and sediment suspended near the pump can differ based on geological formations and aquifer characteristics. Deeper or differently composed sources may carry differing sediment loads, so test results from local aquifers provide useful context but cannot predict a single home's sediment challenges.
Belief: Cloudy or gritty water is always due to well pump sediment
While visible particles can indicate sediment near the pump, other issues such as pipe rust or biofilm may cause similar symptoms. Conversely, sediment may be present without noticeable water cloudiness. Confirming sediment as the cause requires targeted testing rather than assuming based on appearance or taste.
Belief: Specific equipment removes all sediment without affecting water chemistry
The Pentek Sediment From the Well Pump Filter system targets sediment effectively by capturing particles before household use. It operates by physical filtration, not altering chemical characteristics such as specific conductance. This distinction is important because conductance reflects dissolved minerals, not the particulate sediment filtration addresses.
Belief: Sediment problems are indistinguishable from dissolved solids or mineral content issues
Sediment consists of suspended particles that cause cloudiness or grit, while specific conductance measures dissolved substances affecting water’s ability to carry electric current. Sediment filters like the Pentek system remove particles but do not reduce minerals dissolved in water; these two water quality aspects require different assessments and approaches.
Belief: Laboratory tests for sediment use the same parameters as conductance tests and provide similar information
Certified laboratory sediment analysis examines particle concentration and size distribution, not specific conductance. A test focused on sediment shows actual suspended solids and will confirm whether sediment levels near the pump justify treatment. Conductance data provide background on dissolved minerals but do not measure particles directly affecting sediment filters’ performance.
To determine if sediment is a significant issue requiring filter implementation, order a certified sediment concentration test for your well water. If suspended particle levels are above your household’s tolerance or cause damage to plumbing or appliances, a sediment filter system such as the Pentek Sediment From the Well Pump Filter can effectively reduce sediment load and improve water clarity.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2017-07-18. 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 Specific conductance in the 112SRFD aquifer (Grafton County): 6 results from 3 wells, median 195.0 uS/cm, range 101.0-272.0 uS/cm; none above any federal threshold
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