How Uranium and Radium Enter Groundwater in Randolph County’s 112PLSC Aquifer
A common mistake is assuming that detecting uranium and radium in local groundwater automatically indicates a problem for residents. Government monitoring by the U.S. Geological Survey has documented these constituents in samples from wells in Randolph County’s 112PLSC aquifer. These elements originate naturally from the rocks and soils through which groundwater moves, dissolving small amounts of radioactive materials into the water.
Between May and September 2014, six samples from three wells 18 to 95 feet deep showed alpha particle activity—a marker for uranium and radium presence—with values ranging from 0.0 to 2.8 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). While all samples detected alpha particles, none exceeded federal action levels designed to indicate when treatment is recommended.
What Changes for Large Households, Second Homes, or Seasonal Properties?
Households with higher water use, such as larger families or seasonal homes, face different considerations. Uranium and radium concentrations do not fluctuate with water demand, but treatment systems must be sized appropriately to handle the volume of water used daily. A property used intermittently may require a different treatment strategy compared to a full-time residence because of varied water flow and potential stagnation effects.
Judging Treatment Capacity Against Household Daily Demand
Assessing treatment capacity involves matching the expected daily water use to the system’s grain capacity and flow rate. The Fleck Uranium & Radium System, for example, has a grain capacity of 32,000 grains, providing a substantial reservoir to reduce uranium and radium levels over time without frequent regeneration. Choosing a system with sufficient capacity ensures consistent performance and reduces maintenance frequency, which is important for households with fluctuating water use.
How Public-System Records Differ from Private-Well Testing
Records from the public water system or regional groundwater sampling provide an overview of typical constituent levels in an area but do not reflect the specific condition of any individual well. Government data from Randolph County’s aquifer show the general presence and concentration range of uranium and radium but cannot determine the exact concentration in your well. Direct testing of your household water is necessary to know your own levels and decide on treatment needs.
Understanding the Measured Range Compared to Federal Standards
The federal maximum contaminant level (MCL) for combined uranium and radium is higher than the maximum detected in the monitored wells from Randolph County’s aquifer. None of the six samples exceeded federal standards. Detection does not imply a violation or an immediate health risk but indicates the presence of these constituents at low levels. This distinction is important when evaluating water quality information and deciding if treatment is warranted.
How Treated Water Differs at the Tap with the Fleck Uranium & Radium System
When in use, the Fleck Uranium & Radium System reduces the levels of uranium and radium by exchanging ions responsible for these radioactive particles. The treated water reaching the taps shows significantly lowered alpha particle activity, improving water quality while meeting household water demands. This system ships ready to configure, allowing homeowners to manage setup according to their plumbing arrangement without outside assistance.
Next Step: Testing Your Household Water
To settle the question of whether uranium and radium treatment is necessary, the single critical step is to order a comprehensive water test measuring alpha particle activity or direct uranium and radium concentrations from your well or supply. Results at or near the area median of 2.1 pCi/L, and below federal limits, may suggest that treatment is optional based on your household’s preferences. Higher readings, or concerns about long-term exposure, would support using a dedicated system designed for these constituents.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2014-09-11. 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 Alpha particle in the 112PLSC aquifer (Randolph County): 6 results from 3 wells, median 2.1 pCi/L, range 0.0-2.8 pCi/L; none above any federal threshold
- ✓ 90-Day Money-BackNo restocking fees — return within 90 days.
- ✓ Manufacturer WarrantyGenuine Fleck · Pentair · VIQUA equipment.
- ✓ Free Expert SizingTalk to a specialist and buy the right system the first time.