Government sampling in Mobile County's 122MOCN aquifer found iron present in nearly all wells tested from June to August 2011, with concentrations ranging from 3.3 to 59.8 micrograms per liter. None of these results exceeded federal thresholds. This checklist highlights important factors to consider about iron bacteria in area water and preparing for treatment options.
Sample Depth, Well Depth, and Water Source Impacts
Shallow Wells May Show Different Iron Levels Than Deep Wells
The sampled wells ranged from 14 to 68 feet deep. Iron presence and bacterial activity can vary with depth due to differing oxygen levels and geology.
Surface Water Sources Differ from Groundwater Aquifers
Iron bacteria develop predominantly in groundwater sources like aquifers. If your supply is surface water, iron bacteria may be less relevant.
Well Construction and Age Affect Iron Bacteria Growth Potential
The condition of the well itself influences bacterial colonization, independent of regional iron concentrations.
Details to Record Before Seeking Solutions
Obtain a Recent Comprehensive Water Test Including Iron Bacteria
Area data cannot determine your water's condition. A well-specific test is necessary to measure iron and bacteriological presence accurately.
Note Well Depth, Pumping Rate, and Usage Patterns
These factors affect iron bacteria growth and treatment effectiveness.
Observe Physical Water Attributes: Color, Staining, and Sediment
Iron bacteria often cause reddish-brown stains or slimy deposits, which are clues to their presence.
Water Changes After Using the Autotrol Iron Bacteria & Slime Filter
Reduction of Iron Bacteria and Associated Slime
The filtration system targets iron bacteria and slime formations, reducing staining and buildup in pipes and fixtures.
Improved Clarity and Taste at the Tap
Filtering iron bacteria enhances water appearance and may reduce metallic taste linked to iron.
Lower Maintenance Needs for Plumbing and Appliances
Removing iron bacteria and slime decreases clogging and corrosion risks.
Comparing Mobile County’s Iron Data with Neighboring Areas
Sampling Scope and Time Frame Affect Apparent Iron Levels
Compare Mobile County’s June–August 2011 samples with similar data sets from adjacent counties to understand regional trends.
Geologic Variation Causes Differences Across Regions
Local aquifer composition significantly influences iron content and bacterial growth.
Do Not Assume Neighboring Data Reflects Your Specific Well
Well-specific testing remains essential despite area comparisons.
Differences Between Public Water Records and Private Well Testing
Public Records Reflect Area-Wide Sampling, Not Individual Wells
Government data provides context but cannot substitute for a private well analysis.
Public Data Rarely Includes Microbial Testing for Iron Bacteria
Microbiological aspects often require direct sampling beyond chemical iron measurements.
Private Tests Provide Actionable Information for Treatment Decisions
Personal testing results clarify the presence and severity of iron bacteria in your water supply.
To conclusively determine your water's iron bacteria status, order a combined chemical and microbiological test from a certified laboratory. Confirming iron bacteria presence and load will guide effective use of the Autotrol Iron Bacteria & Slime Filter or other treatment options to improve your household water quality.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2011-08-11. 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 Iron in the 122MOCN aquifer (Mobile County): 26 results from 26 wells, median 8.9 ug/L, range 3.3-59.8 ug/L; none above any federal threshold
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