How Water Quality Changes When Using the Fleck System
Tannins cause a tea-like coloration in water, which some homeowners notice as discoloration in faucets or appliances. When the Fleck Yellow, Tea-Colored Tannin Water Filter is put into service, it targets and removes tannins from water that comes from surface sources prone to organic materials. As a result, water clarity improves, reducing staining and discoloration on fixtures and laundry. This change is visible at taps where water previously showed a yellow or brown tint.
Clarifying Sampling Terms: Detected, Median, and Range
The local public water system serving Lewiston and surrounding parts of Nez Perce County uses surface water but has no federal monitoring data specifically measuring tannins. For other substances, the terms 'detected' means an instrument registered a measurable amount, with no implication of a health violation. The 'median' describes the middle value of sampled data, and the 'range' shows all values from lowest to highest measured. Since no tannin data exists in the official record, homeowner concerns about severity require personal water testing for confirmation.
Plumbing Material and Age Affect Perceived Water Quality
Even if the water source has tannins, the plumbing system's materials and how old it is can influence water appearance and taste. For example, older pipes might accumulate deposits that interact with tannins or other organics, causing more noticeable discoloration or taste changes inside the home. Recognizing the role of plumbing separate from the source water helps focus testing and treatment on the actual issue.
Fixtures and Appliances Impacted Early by Tannin Presence
Tannin discoloration becomes evident first on fixtures where water flow is frequent and water exposure is prolonged. Bathroom sinks, kitchen faucets, and appliances like dishwashers and washing machines often show yellow or brown stains. These areas also may experience aesthetic damage that affects use and cleaning. Addressing tannins can preserve the appearance and function of these appliances.
Estimating Treatment Needs Relative to Household Water Use
Choosing the right tannin treatment involves matching the filter's capacity to a household’s daily water consumption. Since tannins are organic compounds often found in surface water, treatment systems like the Fleck System must be sized to process typical household volumes without frequent regeneration or filter replacement. Homeowners should consider average daily water use when selecting a unit to ensure effective and efficient tannin removal.
Closing
Residents in Nez Perce County dealing with tannin concerns should first confirm tannin levels through individual water testing. Using this information together with household water use, they can select a properly sized Fleck Yellow, Tea-Colored Tannin Water Filter to improve water clarity and reduce staining.
Where this information comes from
Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2025-12-31. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.
On record: EPA SDWIS record for LEWISTON CITY OF (ID2350014), surface water supply, serving 15001 people: 0 health-based violations of 42 total; lead 90th percentile 0.001 mg/L
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