Fleck Orange Iron & Rust Stains Filter

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Sample Size and What It Means for Shelby County Iron Levels

The data at hand comes from 10 samples taken from 5 separate wells within Shelby County's 100ALVM aquifer between September 20 and 28, 2017. These wells ranged in depth from 55 to 166 feet. While this sample size and well count provide a snapshot of iron presence in the area, it represents only a fraction of total wells. Homeowners should understand this overview highlights typical measurement ranges but does not substitute for testing their own water source.

Interpreting the Median and Range of Iron Concentrations

The median iron concentration recorded was 16,200 micrograms per liter (ug/L), with values ranging from 2,850 to 24,500 ug/L. Median indicates the middle value of this data set, meaning half the measurements were above and half below this figure. The range shows variability in iron levels between individual wells sampled. None of these results exceeded federal limits, indicating the iron detected is within monitored levels but may still influence water quality in terms of appearance and taste.

Maintenance Rhythms for the Fleck System Addressing Iron and Rust

The equipment designed to handle this level of iron, such as the Fleck Orange Iron & Rust Stains Filter, ships ready to configure for residential use. Typical upkeep involves periodic checks and media replacement at intervals recommended by the manufacturer, tailored to household water demand and quality. Regular maintenance ensures consistent performance in reducing iron and minimizing rust-related staining.

Distinguishing Iron and Rust from Similar Water Issues

Iron and rust presence can be confused with other water concerns like manganese coloration or general water hardness. Iron often imparts a reddish tint and rusty staining, while manganese may cause darker stains, and hardness relates to mineral content that affects soap suds and scale buildup. Correct identification is crucial to select the appropriate treatment method.

Public System Records Versus Private Well Testing

Public water system records, including area aquifer sampling, provide regional insights rather than specific well conditions. They do not measure individual homeowner water, which requires direct testing. Thus, while area data informs likely water characteristics, only private testing reveals a home's exact iron concentration and other constituents.

Origin of Iron in Shelby County Groundwater

In this region, iron naturally occurs due to the geological composition of aquifer 100ALVM. Iron leaches into groundwater from soil and rock formations over time. This natural process explains why iron is consistently detected in all samples but within known ranges. Iron presence is common and manageable with appropriate filtration.

Recommended Testing to Clarify Household Water Conditions

The definitive step for homeowners concerned about iron and rust is ordering a comprehensive water analysis from a certified laboratory focusing on iron concentration. This test result will clarify the water’s iron level in the household supply, guiding the choice and configuration of the Fleck Orange Iron & Rust Stains Filter or other treatment approaches to meet specific water quality needs.

Where this information comes from

Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2017-09-28. 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 100ALVM aquifer (Shelby County): 10 results from 5 wells, median 16200.0 ug/L, range 2850.0-24500.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold