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What the UCMR3 Survey Reported on Chromium-6 in Duval County

Laboratory data lists chromium-6 concentrations in micrograms per liter (µg/L) or parts per billion (ppb)

The EPA's Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule 3 (UCMR3) from 2013 to 2015 measured hexavalent chromium, also called chromium(VI), in Jacksonville's public water supplied by JEA - Major Grid. Of 104 samples, 2 showed chromium-6 amounts above the 0.03 µg/L reporting threshold, with the highest measured level at 0.097 µg/L and a median of detected samples at 0.074 µg/L. These figures reflect the public water system's water, not any individual household's supply.

The survey aimed to understand regional occurrence but does not replace personal water testing

This nationwide monitoring helps identify contaminants of interest in community water systems. However, it is not a compliance or safety assessment for any single home. Only a laboratory test of your household water can determine exact chromium(VI) content where you live.

Ion Exchange and Reverse Osmosis: How They Differ in Handling Chromium(VI)

Ion exchange technology exchanges chromium-6 ions with less problematic ions in the water

Ion exchange systems target chromium(VI) by binding it chemically to a resin, effectively lowering its concentration. These systems work continuously on water passing through and can handle varying water quality levels, depending on their capacity.

Reverse osmosis reduces chromium-6 by forcing water through a fine membrane

Reverse osmosis filters separate chromium(VI) along with many dissolved solids by pushing water through a semipermeable membrane. While effective, they may produce less treated water per cycle and require storage capacity.

Comparing Duval County's Chromium-6 Data with Neighboring Areas Without Overinterpretation

Data reflect public system averages, not individual home plumbing or well water

While Duval County's JEA system shows detections in the low parts per billion range, neighboring counties may report different numbers based on their water sources and treatment. Such regional data help inform but should not be assumed to indicate your home's water quality.

Differences in groundwater sources and treatment approaches influence comparative results

Neighboring counties might rely on different groundwater aquifers or surface water, affecting chromium(VI) occurrence. Treatment standards and technologies also vary, so direct comparisons require context and caution.

Public Water System Records Versus Private Well Testing: What They Establish

Public water system records reflect aggregated system measurements, not home-specific results

Records from JEA cover hundreds of thousands of connections and measure water before it reaches households. They provide a broad overview of chromium(VI) presence in the system's supply but cannot specify individual water quality variations.

Private well testing is necessary for exact chromium-6 levels at your household

If your home relies on a private well, the public water system data do not apply. Testing your own water through a certified laboratory remains the only way to know your specific chromium(VI) concentration.

Steps to Narrow Down Chromium-6 Concerns: From Simple Checks to Laboratory Tests

Review any recent water quality reports provided by your local utility

Start by obtaining the annual water quality report or Consumer Confidence Report from JEA. This official document summarizes recent water monitoring results and can provide insights into contaminants like chromium-6.

Observe any changes in water taste, color, or staining that could indicate dissolved solids changes

Chromium(VI) itself is generally not noticeable by taste or smell, but related total dissolved solids or other factors might cause changes. These observations are not diagnostic but may prompt further testing.

Order a certified laboratory test specifically measuring hexavalent chromium

For precise household data, choose a lab test that reports chromium-6 concentration in micrograms per liter. Ensure the sample is collected properly and analyzed according to EPA-approved methods.

Potential Long-Term Effects of Untreated Chromium-6 Exposure

Scientific research investigates chromium(VI) health impacts but regulatory standards are evolving

Chromium-6’s presence in water is under ongoing study, with no federal maximum contaminant level yet established. The EPA records no health-based violations for JEA’s system. Consumers seeking to reduce chromium-6 often look to treatment technologies recognized for their effectiveness.

Continuous exposure without treatment may concern some households seeking precautionary reduction

While the JEA water meets current federal health-based standards, households with concerns about chromium(VI) can consider water treatment options designed to address this constituent to complement existing equipment.

Summary

Government data for JEA’s public water system in Jacksonville, Duval County, indicate chromium-6 is detected at low levels within the system's groundwater source. This occurrence monitoring data offers insight into regional water quality but cannot specify any household’s water condition without individual testing. The EPA shows no health-based violations for chromium in this system.

The Fleck Chromium-6 Filter, which ships ready to configure, offers a documented method to reduce chromium(VI) in residential water. For precise water quality knowledge, testing your household water is essential. Find comprehensive monitoring data and additional information at the EPA’s public water system record website.

Where this information comes from

Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2014-01-08. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.

On record: EPA UCMR3 monitoring (2013-2015) for JEA - Major Grid (FL2161328), FL: 208 results across 2 listed contaminants, 13 detections above the reporting level; no federal MCL for hexavalent chromium; total chromium MCL 100 ug/L