Myth: Regional Data Directly Defines Your Household Water Quality
Government groundwater sampling in Harvey County’s aquifer 112PLSC by the U.S. Geological Survey collected 565 selenium measurements from 98 wells between 2010 and 2016. While these results offer a broad picture of selenium presence in the area, they do not establish the exact composition of your household’s water. Wells vary in depth (27 to 270 feet), location, and local geology. Individual testing of your water source is essential to confirm your household’s heavy metals profile rather than relying solely on area statistics.
Myth: Comparing Selenium Levels with Neighboring Counties Provides a Clear Risk Indicator
It may seem reasonable to compare Harvey County’s selenium data to adjacent counties as a gauge of relative risk. However, variations in sampling methods, well location, aquifer characteristics, and timing mean that differences in median or range of selenium detections do not directly predict conditions at your home. Government data snapshots offer context but should not be overread as definitive for your water supply without specific testing.
Myth: Certified Laboratory Results Simply Show Safe or Unsafe Levels
When you obtain a certified laboratory test for selenium or other heavy metals, the report lists concentrations measured in your water. Reading these results requires understanding that detection is not violation or hazard. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets health-based federal limits for selenium; none of the 565 samples in Harvey County’s aquifer exceeded these thresholds. Your lab report will show if levels are detected and how they compare to these limits, assisting you in making informed decisions.
Myth: Household Size or Usage Pattern Does Not Affect Water Treatment Needs
Household size, seasonal occupancy, and usage frequency influence the volume of water treated and the capacity required for filtration systems. Larger families or secondary properties with intermittent use may need systems capable of handling variable demand efficiently. Understanding these factors ensures your water treatment approach remains effective in reducing heavy metals without unnecessary overcapacity or underperformance.
Myth: The Range of Detected Selenium Concentrations Indicates Immediate Health Risk
The 2010–2016 government sampling in Harvey County showed selenium detected in 370 of 565 results, with concentrations ranging from 0.02 to 69.2 micrograms per liter and a median of 1.15. Despite this range, no federal health-based limits were exceeded in any sample. This information clarifies that detection alone does not equate to unsafe water. The upper values are well within established regulatory standards that protect health.
To determine the appropriate solution for your household, you should have a certified laboratory test analyzing your specific well or water source for selenium and other heavy metals. The single test that reliably resolves uncertainty is a comprehensive heavy metals profile from a recognized laboratory. If your test detects concentrations that you wish to manage, the C-Series Heavy Metals Filter ships ready to configure as a proven technology to reduce heavy metals in residential water supplies efficiently and with confirmed performance.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2016-10-18. 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 Selenium in the 112PLSC aquifer (Harvey County): 565 results from 98 wells, median 1.15 ug/L, range 0.02-69.2 ug/L; none above any federal threshold