Autotrol Faded, Stiff Laundry System

Buy Now

View full details

Recent Government Sampling from Lancaster County Aquifer 112SDGVD

The U.S. Geological Survey has sampled groundwater from aquifer 112SDGVD in Lancaster County, collecting 32 results from 9 wells during 2010 to 2011. Hardness, measured by calcium and magnesium levels, was detected consistently, with a median concentration of 332 mg/L and a range spanning from 166 mg/L up to 749 mg/L. None of these results exceeded any federal regulatory thresholds, indicating compliance with established water quality standards for health and safety.

Influence of Plumbing Material and Age on Laundry Water Quality

Beyond source water characteristics, the age and type of household plumbing significantly influence water quality as it reaches laundry appliances. Older pipes, especially those made of certain metals, can leach minerals or sediments that affect water appearance and performance. Changes within the internal surfaces of pipes, including scaling buildup from minerals, further modify water behavior. These factors may contribute to washing issues such as fading, independent of the water source’s measured hardness.

Neutralizing Mineral Effects with Autotrol Technology

The Autotrol Faded, Stiff Laundry System utilizes a technology designed to address dissolved minerals that contribute to fabric fading and stiffness. This system operates by effectively reducing or neutralizing calcium and magnesium ions before water contacts clothing during washing. By treating the cause rather than the symptoms, it helps maintain fabric vibrancy and softness throughout multiple laundry cycles. The equipment ships ready to configure for residential water systems without requiring specialized service.

Commercial Versus Residential Considerations

While this briefing focuses on households, commercial and industrial operators weigh additional factors such as water volume, process-specific water quality needs, and equipment compatibility. Those operations often require detailed water testing beyond hardness, including assessments of flow rates, pH, and other mineral content. Residential users primarily consider appliance compatibility and treatment effectiveness on visible fabric wear and feel.

Early Impacted Laundry Fixtures and Why

Fixtures and appliances that first exhibit the effects of mineral-related water quality issues include washing machines and laundry tubs. Mineral deposits can accumulate on heating elements, inner drum surfaces, and valves, altering water chemistry locally. Detergents may also interact less effectively with hard water components, intensifying fading and stiffness. Early signs also appear in fabric texture and color retention after multiple washes.

Source of Mineral Constituents in Lancaster County Groundwater

The calcium and magnesium detected in groundwater primarily originate from natural geological formations surrounding the aquifer 112SDGVD. These minerals dissolve into groundwater as it flows through soil and rock strata typical of Lancaster County. Depths at sampled wells ranged between 40 and 280 feet, demonstrating consistent mineral presence throughout these subsurface layers. This natural origin explains the persistent hardness levels observed in multiple wells.

For household users experiencing faded laundry concerns in Lancaster County, measuring the hardness in their own well or tap water confirms the exact mineral concentration affecting their wash water. The Autotrol Faded, Stiff Laundry System directly addresses the underlying mineral presence measured, providing a targeted treatment designed to preserve fabric quality effectively.

Where this information comes from

Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2011-10-12. 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 Hardness, Ca, Mg in the 112SDGVD aquifer (Lancaster County): 32 results from 9 wells, median 332.0 mg/L, range 166.0-749.0 mg/L; none above any federal threshold