Interpreting Selenium Concentrations in Bernalillo County's Aquifer 112SNTFU
Median and Range of Selenium Tested by USGS
The U.S. Geological Survey collected 220 groundwater samples from 16 wells within Bernalillo County's aquifer 112SNTFU between 2013 and 2020. Selenium was detected in 181 of those results with a median concentration of 0.77 micrograms per liter (µg/L) and a range from 0.04 to 5.7 µg/L. None of the samples exceeded federal health-based thresholds for selenium. This data reflects general regional levels, not specific to any individual home or well.
What Detection Means for Homeowners
Detection indicates the presence of selenium in the aquifer, but not necessarily at levels that compromise water safety or quality. Concentrations below legal limits are not a violation or health concern but may influence aesthetic factors or long-term maintenance. Individual well testing is essential to determine your household’s actual selenium level, especially after equipment failure.
How Well Depth and Source Type Influence Expectations for Heavy Metals
Depth Range of Sampled Wells Compared to Typical Residential Wells
The sampled wells in this area range from 100 to 1,630 feet deep, encompassing conditions that vary significantly with depth. Typically, deeper wells may interact differently with geological formations, potentially affecting heavy metal presence. Knowing your well depth provides context when comparing your water test results to regional data.
Source Type and Variability of Heavy Metal Concentration
The aquifer supplying Bernalillo County represents a primary water source, but local geology and well construction can impact the presence and levels of heavy metals such as selenium. Variations may arise between homes on private wells and those served by municipal systems drawing from the same aquifer.
Steps to Rule Out Causes of Heavy Metal Concerns
Evaluate Existing Equipment and Filtration Systems
After equipment failure, reassess the current water treatment setup to detect leaks, blockages, or malfunctioning parts that could affect heavy metal filtration.
Conduct a Certified Laboratory Water Test
Testing your household water through a certified laboratory identifies exact concentrations of selenium and other metals, providing data to choose appropriate treatment methods.
Consider Routine Water Quality Monitoring
Regular testing helps monitor fluctuations over time, ensuring early detection of any emerging heavy metal concerns.
Fixtures, Appliances, and Processes Affected First by Heavy Metals
Kitchen and Bathroom Faucets
Selenium and other metals may accumulate and impact taste or appearance at points of use such as sinks and showers first.
Water-Using Appliances
Appliances like dishwashers and coffee makers may experience scaling or reduced performance if untreated metals are present.
Hot Water Systems
Heating metals can change their behavior, potentially increasing corrosion or deposits affecting water heaters.
Plumbing Material and Age as Distinct Factors
Older Pipes May Leach Metals Independently of Source Water
Metal content in water can be influenced by corrosion of plumbing materials over time, separate from aquifer conditions.
Plastic and Modern Piping Material Reduce Heavy Metal Introduction
Using non-metallic plumbing materials limits potential heavy metal leaching from pipes.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection Are Vital
Monitoring plumbing integrity helps limit additional metal exposure not related to source water quality.
This summary is based on U.S. Geological Survey sampling of 220 results from 16 wells in Bernalillo County's aquifer 112SNTFU, collected 2013-2020. For detailed regional data, visit the USGS groundwater database.
After existing equipment failure, the C-Series Heavy Metals Filter ships ready to configure and can reduce heavy metals effectively when combined with verified water testing results.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2020-01-09. 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 Selenium in the 112SNTFU aquifer (Bernalillo County): 220 results from 16 wells, median 0.77 ug/L, range 0.04-5.7 ug/L; none above any federal threshold