Seasonal and Multi-Year Variation in Iron Measurements
Sampling Dates and Range
Groundwater sampling in St. Louis County's 111ALVM aquifer was conducted on November 7, 2013. Results from two wells, sampled at depths between 25 and 80 feet, showed consistent iron detection with a median concentration of 5420 micrograms per liter and a range from 4580 to 6200 micrograms per liter. This single date snapshot does not provide information on seasonal or year-to-year variation, which can influence iron levels in groundwater.
The Role of Plumbing Materials and Age
Influence on Iron Bacteria Presence
Plumbing materials and the age of household pipes can affect iron bacteria accumulation and slime formation independently of the iron content in the source water. Older iron or steel pipes may foster bacterial growth and slime buildup more readily than modern materials. Recognizing these factors is important when assessing the extent of iron bacteria issues in your home.
Understanding 'Detected,' 'Median,' and 'Range' in Sampling Data
What These Terms Tell You
- Detected means instruments measured iron in all sampled wells; no samples were below the reporting limit.
- Median indicates the middle value of iron concentration among the samples, here 5420 micrograms per liter, representing typical detected levels.
- Range shows the spread of values from the lowest (4580 micrograms per liter) to the highest (6200 micrograms per liter), reflecting variability within the sampled wells.
Order of Checks: From Simple Checks to Laboratory Testing
Steps to Identify Your Household's Iron Bacteria Status
- Check visual signs such as reddish slime or staining on fixtures, which often indicate iron bacteria presence.
- Consider plumbing age and material, since older or iron-containing pipes may increase slime buildup.
- Conduct a laboratory test of your household water to determine your well’s specific iron concentration and bacterial presence. Area statistics provide context but not individual results.
How the C-Series Iron Bacteria & Slime Filter Addresses Iron Bacteria
Technology Overview
This filtration system is designed to remove iron bacteria and slime from household water. It works by filtering out iron particles and biological material that contribute to slime accumulation. The system ships ready to configure, enabling tailored water treatment for residential use.
Interpreting Measured Iron Concentrations Against Federal Standards
What the Data Indicates and What It Does Not
The measured iron levels in St. Louis County aquifer 111ALVM samples do not exceed federal health-based thresholds. Detection reflects presence but does not imply that the water is unsafe. Iron levels above aesthetic secondary standards may affect taste and cause staining but are not health violations. These standards guide homeowner decisions about treatment to improve water quality and protect plumbing.
Closing Thoughts on Area Data and Personal Water Quality
Area sampling offers valuable insight into groundwater characteristics but does not determine the quality of your household’s water. Only testing your own water can establish your iron concentration and iron bacteria presence. Use the regional data as a guide to decide whether to test and consider treatment options such as the C-Series Iron Bacteria & Slime Filter for effective management.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2013-11-07. 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 111ALVM aquifer (St. Louis County): 4 results from 2 wells, median 5420.0 ug/L, range 4580.0-6200.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold