Myth: Arsenic levels in regional bedrock wells directly predict your household water quality
Many believe that because arsenic was detected in Androscoggin County bedrock aquifer wells, their own household water has the same arsenic concentration. However, the US Geological Survey sampled three deep bedrock wells in the area between August and October 2011 and found arsenic in all three, with a median concentration of 10.7 micrograms per liter and a range from 0.24 to 16.4 micrograms per liter. None of these results exceeded federal safety thresholds. Still, these values reflect regional sampling, not individual household wells. The only way to know your home's arsenic level is through specific well or tap water testing.
Myth: Larger or seasonal households face the same arsenic considerations as standard homes
Households with higher water use—such as large families or second homes used seasonally—may experience different impacts from arsenic presence. More frequent water turnover may influence exposure patterns and treatment demand. Seasonally occupied properties might see stagnation, which could affect arsenic levels at the tap. These factors can affect the volume and frequency of treatment needed but do not change the fundamental necessity of confirming arsenic levels through testing specific to the property.
Myth: Testing one sample or well gives a complete picture of arsenic in the area
The USGS data is based on only three sampled wells within Androscoggin County's bedrock aquifer, all quite deep—from 262 to 304 feet. While these provide valuable regional insight, the small sample size means the data cannot comprehensively represent all wells or household water quality. Variability is expected between wells due to local geology and well construction. Therefore, a household should not assume its water matches this range but should seek individual testing that includes laboratory analysis to understand its unique circumstances.
Myth: Arsenic treatment removes or alters arsenic by a simple single process
The documented method for addressing arsenic in residential water is the Fleck Arsenic Filter system. It functions by removing arsenic through targeted filtration technology designed to reduce arsenic concentrations effectively. This system ships ready to configure for residential use and can be selected based on the arsenic level determined by laboratory testing of your own water supply. Understanding the arsenic concentration helps choose the proper class or configuration of treatment to match household demand.
Myth: Arsenic levels in Androscoggin County are identical to those in neighboring counties
Though neighboring counties in Maine might share similar geology, arsenic concentrations can vary notably due to differences in aquifer composition and groundwater movement. This means that regional arsenic data for Androscoggin County cannot be directly applied to adjacent areas without similar sampling. When comparing counties, it is important to review specific well sampling results rather than assuming uniform arsenic presence or concentration.
Myth: You can discuss arsenic treatment effectively without precise water data
Before seeking advice or selecting treatment options, households should write down key information about their water source. This includes results from certified laboratory testing that quantifies arsenic concentration, water usage patterns, depth and construction of the well, and any prior water treatment history. Having these details ensures that the recommended treatment technology aligns properly with household needs and arsenic levels.
For homes in Androscoggin County with confirmed arsenic in their water supply, the Fleck Arsenic Filter is a reliable treatment technology. It addresses arsenic by removing it according to the demand dictated by water testing results, helping ensure safe and aesthetic water quality tailored to your residential needs.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2011-10-13. 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 Arsenic in the BEDROCK aquifer (Androscoggin County): 3 results from 3 wells, median 10.7 ug/L, range 0.24-16.4 ug/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.