U.S. Geological Survey groundwater sampling in Virginia Beach city County’s aquifer 121YKEV found sulfide detected in all 26 results from 19 wells sampled between 2010 and 2018. The median concentration was 0.005 mg/L, with a range from 0.0 to 0.214 mg/L, and no measurements exceeded federal sulfide thresholds.
If you are a commercial or industrial water user in Virginia Beach city
Beyond household concerns, commercial or industrial operators should also consider sulfide impacts on plumbing materials and process water. These users evaluate sulfide concentrations alongside operational factors like water temperature and retention time, which influence odor development and potential corrosion. Household settings typically do not require this level of analysis.
If you want to know what the measured sulfide range means against federal standards
The sulfide levels detected in this area’s groundwater were all below federal limits. This means there is no federal classification of excess sulfide requiring mandatory action. However, these measurements do not guarantee absence of odor or aesthetic issues in any individual household’s water. Sulfur smell can arise at low sulfide levels not regulated federally.
If you are trying to understand what 'detected', 'median', and 'range' signify in these government data
'Detected' means instruments found measurable sulfide in every tested sample within the area aquifer— none were below the reporting limit. 'Median' of 0.005 mg/L represents the middle value among these results, and 'range' from 0.0 to 0.214 mg/L shows variability between wells and over time. These figures describe general regional water characteristics but do not identify a specific household’s water quality.
If you want to interpret a certified lab sulfide test report for your home water
A certified laboratory will provide a precise sulfide concentration for your water sample. Comparing your result with the regional range helps contextualize if your water is typical or elevated in sulfide. Since odor perception varies by individual sensitivity, even low sulfide levels may cause noticeable sulfur smell. Testing is the only way to know your own water conditions.
If you are curious about seasonal or multi-year changes in sulfide measured in Virginia Beach city aquifer 121YKEV
The government record covers samples collected from 2010 to 2018, showing sulfide levels fluctuated within the stated range over these years. Variations may result from natural aquifer chemistry changes, water demand shifts, or testing intervals. Seasonal effects on odor may also occur, as temperature and water use patterns influence sulfur smell intensity.
Deciding whether sulfur smell in your household water relates to sulfide in the regional aquifer involves understanding these data and obtaining your water’s sulfide test. If sulfide is a confirmed cause, the C-Series Rotten-Egg Sulfur Smell Filter ships ready to configure and provides a documented solution designed to reduce sulfur odor effectively.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2018-08-24. 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 Sulfide in the 121YKEV aquifer (Virginia Beach city County): 26 results from 19 wells, median 0.005 mg/L, range 0.0-0.214 mg/L; none above any federal threshold