The U.S. Geological Survey groundwater sampling in Navajo County's aquifer 220NAVJ found iron concentrations in 14 wells ranging from 4.3 to 30.6 micrograms per liter, with a median of 7.75 micrograms per liter, measured between 2010 and 2019. These results, from wells between 554 and 3737 feet deep, confirm iron's presence but do not indicate any federal threshold exceedance.
Recognizing Total Well Water Symptoms at Home
Households may notice effects like minor discoloration in water or slight staining on fixtures, but these signs alone do not confirm severity or require treatment. Not all water discoloration or taste changes come from total well water problems. Some symptoms—such as unexpected metallic taste or mild staining—can suggest iron or other minerals, but further assessment is required. Not all symptoms arise from this water source quality.
How Natural Iron Enters Groundwater in Navajo County
In Navajo County, iron occurs naturally in the aquifer 220NAVJ due to the geological makeup underground. It gets dissolved into groundwater over time through natural mineral dissolution processes. This happens especially at varying well depths from hundreds to thousands of feet. Iron detected reflects these natural conditions rather than contamination or recent human activity. It is part of the groundwater’s mineral content.
How the Pentair Total Well Chlorination System Works to Treat
This system uses chlorination technology designed to oxidize and precipitate iron compounds, converting dissolved iron into forms that can be filtered out effectively. By applying controlled chlorination at the point water enters the household system, it reduces iron-related discoloration and staining. The technology ships ready to configure for household water systems, with a treatment capacity suitable for moderately sized residential use.
Fixtures and Uses Affected First by Total Well Water Quality
The first signs usually appear on fixtures that use or store water extensively, such as bathroom faucets, kitchen sinks, and water heaters. Appliances like washing machines and dishwashers can show effects through minor staining on clothes or dishes. The treatment aims to protect these points to maintain household water quality and appliance longevity.
Steps to Rule Out Other Causes and Confirm the Issue
- Start with simple household observations of any discoloration or staining patterns.
- Check if plumbing materials or age might influence water appearance separately.
- Consider if any recent changes in water sources or well depth might affect quality.
- If uncertainty remains, arrange laboratory testing for iron and other minerals in your water.
Sample Size, Well Depth, and Confidence in Navajo County Data
The government data reflect 40 results from 14 wells sampled over nearly a decade. This moderate sample size and range of well depths provide a reasonable overview of iron presence in the area’s aquifer. However, individual well conditions may differ; the data represent regional trends, not individual water quality. Smaller or isolated samples might miss variations, so personal testing is crucial for accuracy.
The key test to order is a comprehensive water analysis focusing on iron and related parameters from your own well or tap. A result within the range found regionally would indicate typical presence, while higher levels could confirm a need for treatment. This test will clarify whether the Pentair Total Well Chlorination System’s features align with your household’s water treatment needs.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2019-08-23. 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 Iron in the 220NAVJ aquifer (Navajo County): 40 results from 14 wells, median 7.75 ug/L, range 4.3-30.6 ug/L; none above any federal threshold

