Rusco 1-1/2 inch Inline Screen Filter, 100 mesh, 50 GPM — NT150-100, Rusco Fltr,1-1/2x100 50 gpm, 1-1/2-100-F
Buy NowWhen you notice sediment coming from your well pump, you may wonder: what causes this, and how do I address it? In Seward County, KS, well pump sediment can indicate particular water conditions related to the local aquifer, but understanding the specifics is essential before choosing how to respond.
1. Distinguishing Well Pump Sediment from Similar Water Issues
Sediment from a well pump differs from other common water problems such as dissolved minerals or discoloration caused by rust. Sediment refers to solid particles suspended in the water flow, often sand or silt, which can settle in pipes or appliances. Unlike mineral content, sediment physically blocks or abrades equipment parts. Recognizing this helps avoid confusing sediment with other issues that might require different treatments.
2. Matching Treatment Capacity to Household Water Demand
Once sediment is confirmed as the problem, selecting treatment that matches your household’s water volume is critical. Average daily water use for a family ranges widely but commonly falls between 50 to 100 gallons per person. Treatment systems must handle peak flow rates while effectively capturing particulate matter. Knowing your typical water use will guide configuring a sediment filter to prevent further equipment damage or clogging.
3. Additional Considerations for Commercial or Industrial Water Users
For larger-scale users, questions extend beyond residential needs, focusing on higher volume processing, varied water sources, and the impact on specialized equipment. Commercial operations often require higher capacity filtration and more frequent maintenance checks. While this page targets households, understanding these added factors clarifies why industrial use demands different solutions.
4. Reading Seward County’s Government Water Quality Data as a Homeowner
U.S. Geological Survey sampling in Seward County’s N100HGHPLN aquifer recorded specific conductance values in four samples taken from wells about 436 feet deep. Median specific conductance was 675 microsiemens per centimeter, with a tight range between 675 and 676. This indicates a consistent level of dissolved ions affecting water’s ability to conduct electricity but does not reveal sediment levels directly. Importantly, none of these measurements exceeded federal thresholds, meaning no regulatory concerns were noted in these samples.
5. Consequences of Leaving Well Pump Sediment Untreated
Ignoring sediment buildup can lead to gradual wear on a well pump and connected plumbing, causing early failure or costly repairs. Sediment accumulation can clog screens and valves, reduce flow rate, and introduce abrasive damage. Over years, these effects compromise water delivery quality and equipment longevity. Addressing sediment promptly helps maintain smooth water system operation.
6. Identifying Household Signs Linked to Well Pump Sediment
Common symptoms include cloudy or gritty water, sediment deposits in fixtures, and frequent pump cycling or noise changes. However, some issues such as discolored water or taste changes might stem from other causes, not sediment. Only direct testing of well water or visual observation of sediment at the pump can confirm the problem.
The data referenced here reflects sampling from the Seward County N100HGHPLN aquifer at wells approximately 436 feet deep, as documented by the U.S. Geological Survey. For more details, see the source at waterdata.usgs.gov.
To address well pump sediment, equipment such as the Autotrol Sediment From the Well Pump Filter ships ready to configure for residential use and is designed to capture particulate matter before it impacts home water systems.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2015-05-11. 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 N100HGHPLN aquifer (Seward County): 4 results from 1 wells, median 675.0 uS/cm, range 675.0-676.0 uS/cm; none above any federal threshold