Interpretation of Certified Laboratory Tests for Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
In New Hanover County, groundwater from aquifer 124CSLH delivers water to residential wells. Water drawn from 39 to 176 feet deep was sampled 112 times from 38 wells between August 2012 and June 2024. Certified laboratory tests measured total dissolved solids (TDS) in milligrams per liter, producing a median of 117.0 mg/L with a range from 0.07 to 13,100.0 mg/L.
A report of TDS concentration indicates the total amount of inorganic salts and small amounts of organic matter dissolved in the water. Importantly, TDS detections do not indicate health risks but can influence water taste, mineral stain potential, and corrosive properties. A secondary aesthetic standard of 500 mg/L helps identify samples with higher mineral content affecting these qualities, but exceeding this threshold is not a violation or a health concern.
Sample Representation and Implications for Data Reliability
The 112 TDS samples from 38 wells represent a broad but finite coverage of the aquifer supplying New Hanover County residences. While this provides useful regional context, individual wells may vary substantially, as reflected in the wide range of TDS readings. A small subsample or data from different depth intervals could reveal distinct characteristics, so area-level data must not substitute for site-specific water tests.
Essential Information to Collect Before Seeking Treatment Advice
Residents evaluating water treatment options should document their own well depth, recent certified laboratory test results for total dissolved solids and related constituents, and any observed water quality issues such as taste or staining. Understanding the local aquifer’s general profile provides background but personal water testing is critical to selecting an appropriate treatment system.
Additional Concerns for Commercial or Industrial Well Users
Commercial or industrial operators often consider treatment impacts on equipment longevity or product consistency, regulatory compliance for discharge, and larger volume flow rates. In addition to TDS data, they may analyze seasonal variability, specific mineral components, or scaling tendencies more closely than residential users. Household considerations primarily focus on consistent water quality for everyday use and appliance protection.
Contextualizing New Hanover County’s Aquifer Data Against Neighboring Regions
Comparing TDS data from New Hanover County’s aquifer 124CSLH with adjacent counties can highlight broader geological influences or possible contamination sources. However, differences in sampling methods, well depths, and well distribution must be accounted for to avoid overinterpreting apparent disparities. Area data should be viewed as an initial guide rather than definitive site-specific water quality statements.
For residents deciding on complete well water treatment, the critical step is obtaining a current and comprehensive laboratory analysis of their own well water, focusing on total dissolved solids among other parameters. Typically, a result showing TDS near or below the median value reported for the county aquifer suggests standard mineral content, whereas values exceeding the secondary aesthetic threshold may warrant treatment consideration.
The Autotrol Complete Well System ships ready to configure and is designed to address elevated mineral content typical in complete well water. With a grain capacity of 32,000, it provides robust treatment for households encountering mineral-related water quality issues indicated by certified tests. This approach ensures treatment is tailored based on accurate, site-specific water information rather than general area data alone.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2024-06-18. 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 Total dissolved solids in the 124CSLH aquifer (New Hanover County): 112 results from 38 wells, median 117.0 mg/L, range 0.07-13100.0 mg/L; 17 above an AESTHETIC secondary standard only (secondary standard 500.0 mg/L (aesthetic)) - not a health finding
- ✓ 90-Day Money-BackNo restocking fees — return within 90 days.
- ✓ Manufacturer WarrantyGenuine Fleck · Pentair · VIQUA equipment.
- ✓ Free Expert SizingTalk to a specialist and buy the right system the first time.