Understanding Regional Water Data for Sensitive Skin
Median and Range Explained in Simple Terms
The U.S. Geological Survey sampled three wells in Bertie County’s aquifer 211CPFRU between 2013 and 2022. The hardness levels measured in the area ranged from 1.76 to 142.0 mg/L, with a median of 4.79 mg/L. These numbers reflect the presence of calcium and magnesium, which contribute to water hardness. While these figures provide a general sense of water conditions in the aquifer, they do not indicate the hardness in any specific well or system.
Key Details to Note Before Seeking Treatment Advice
Record the Specific Source of Your Water
Note whether your commercial operation uses groundwater from aquifer 211CPFRU or another source, and document well depth if known.
Identify Operational Constraints and Throughput Requirements
Write down your service interval frequency and the volume of water processed between service events, as throughput affects treatment choice.
Gather Any Previous Water Test Results
Have laboratory reports on water hardness or mineral content from your supply ready for reference.
Symptoms That May or May Not Indicate Hardness-Related Skin Sensitivity
Possible Signs Linked to Water Hardness
- Increased skin dryness or irritation after water exposure
- Difficulty rinsing soap or cleaning agents due to mineral residues
Signs Unlikely Related to Hardness
- Skin reactions caused by biological contaminants or chemical pollutants not detected here
- Visible staining or deposits not accompanied by skin effects
Seasonal and Multi-Year Variations in Water Hardness
Sampling Dates Indicate Stability Over Time
The area’s hardness measurements, taken over nearly a decade from 2013 to 2022, show consistent presence of calcium and magnesium minerals without exceeding federal thresholds. Seasonal fluctuations appear limited based on these data, suggesting steady water quality in this respect.
Differences Between Public System Records and Private Well Tests
Public Records Offer Regional Averages, Not Site-Specific Data
Samples represent multiple wells and depth ranges but do not reflect individual well conditions. Private well testing is necessary to understand specific water quality affecting your facility.
The Impact of Sampling and Well Depth on Water Quality Expectations
Sample Depths from 222 to 409 Feet May Differ from Shallower Wells
Hardness levels measured at these depths may not match shallower supply sources your operation uses, which can influence mineral concentrations and skin effects.
Final Recommendation: The Test That Resolves Your Concern
To address sensitive skin issues reliably, commission a dedicated water hardness test on the water actually used in your operation. Knowing the exact calcium and magnesium levels in your supply allows for informed treatment decisions.
When seeking water treatment, consider the Nelsen 150,000 Grain Mineral-Tank Commercial Water Softener. This equipment ships ready to configure and can help manage mineral content effectively, supporting throughput needs between service events.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2022-08-29. 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 Hardness, Ca, Mg in the 211CPFRU aquifer (Bertie County): 5 results from 3 wells, median 4.79 mg/L, range 1.76-142.0 mg/L; none above any federal threshold

