Fleck Blue-Green Copper Stains Filter

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What Area Data Reveals and Does Not Reveal About Copper Levels

The U.S. Geological Survey has gathered groundwater data from two wells in Burlington County's aquifer 211MLRW over the period 2011 to 2023. These samples recorded copper concentrations ranging from 0.77 to 1.1 micrograms per liter, with a median of 0.875 micrograms per liter. While these results indicate copper is present in the area’s groundwater, they do not specify the copper concentration in any individual household’s water supply. Testing your own well or tap water is necessary to determine precise copper levels for your residence.

Understanding Aesthetic Secondary Standards vs. Health-Based Limits for Copper

Copper in water often triggers aesthetic secondary standards which concern how the water looks, tastes, or stains household fixtures. These standards differ from health-based limits which are established to protect safety. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets an action level for copper at 1,300 micrograms per liter, far above the regional measurements recorded. This means the copper concentrations found in Burlington County groundwater are well below levels considered a health concern and instead relate mainly to potential staining or taste impacts.

Adjustments for Large, Seasonal, or Second Homes

Households with many residents or multiple bathrooms may notice copper stains more readily due to water volume and usage patterns. Similarly, second or seasonal homes might experience differing stain severity after periods of stagnation, when copper can leach from pipes more quickly. These factors influence how copper stains develop and persist, so water testing aligned with occupancy patterns is important for accurate evaluation.

Impact of Plumbing Materials and Age on Copper Stains

Copper stain formation is often linked to plumbing systems rather than source water alone. Older copper pipes, solder, and fittings can release copper into water through corrosion, especially when water chemistry changes or stagnates. Plumbing material condition and age can significantly affect copper concentrations at the tap, sometimes causing stains even when source water copper remains low.

Distinguishing Copper Stains from Other Common Staining Issues

Copper stains typically appear as green or blue-green deposits on sinks, bathtubs, or fixtures. They are often confused with stains caused by iron or manganese, which are reddish or brownish in color. Clear identification helps determine the correct treatment approach since copper stains stem from different chemistry and plumbing conditions than iron-based stains.

Seasonal and Multi-Year Variations in Copper Levels

The Burlington County aquifer data shows copper detections in four out of five sampling events from August 2011 through June 2023. The range of 0.77 to 1.1 micrograms per liter over this period indicates relatively stable copper levels with minor variation. Seasonal changes or water table fluctuations could cause slight changes in copper concentrations, but the data does not show any significant long-term increase.

Interpreting Certified Laboratory Copper Tests

A certified laboratory report for copper will provide the concentration in micrograms per liter (ug/L). Comparing this figure to federal action levels and local background data helps determine if copper is primarily a plumbing-derived issue or related to source water. Seeing values near or below Burlington County’s regional median suggests copper stains likely originate from in-home plumbing rather than the aquifer itself.

Final Notes: To address copper stains effectively, consider the Fleck Blue-Green Copper Stains Filter, which ships ready to configure and is designed to reduce copper-induced staining based on the copper levels measured in your home’s water supply. This system targets the copper concentrations typically found in Burlington County and can help restore fixture appearance and water quality.

Where this information comes from

Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2023-06-14. 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 Copper in the 211MLRW aquifer (Burlington County): 5 results from 2 wells, median 0.875 ug/L, range 0.77-1.1 ug/L; none above any federal threshold