Ruling Out Uranium-Radium Concerns Step-by-Step
Check for Visual or Taste Changes in Water
Begin by noting any unusual taste, color, or sediment. Uranium and radium do not alter water appearance or taste noticeably, so these observations may suggest other issues.
Consider Local Water Source Records
Review U.S. Geological Survey findings from Bernalillo County’s aquifer 110ALVM between July and August 2016. Samples from 15 wells showed alpha particle activity ranging from 1.0 to 66.0 pCi/L, with a median of 5.25 pCi/L. None exceeded federal thresholds.
Perform Targeted Laboratory Testing of Household Water
To precisely know uranium-radium levels in your home, request a certified laboratory to analyze your water, specifying alpha particle measurement. This confirms if household water differs from regional findings.
Consult with a Water Treatment Specialist if Results Suggest Elevated Levels
If laboratory results indicate uranium-radium approaching or above federal guidelines, consider treatment options suited to domestic use.
Maintenance Rhythm for the Fleck Uranium & Radium System
Replace Media According to 32,000 Grain Capacity
This system’s media has a documented capacity of 32,000 grains before replacement is advised. Household water use and uranium-radium concentration influence how quickly capacity is reached.
Schedule Routine Backflushes or Regenerations
Periodic backflushes or regeneration cycles prevent media fouling and maintain treatment efficiency. Frequency depends on household water consumption and uranium-radium levels.
Monitor System Performance and Water Quality
Regularly test treated water to confirm that uranium-radium removal meets expectations and that system performance remains consistent.
Interpreting the Median and Range from Area Sampling
Median Alpha Particle Activity Indicates Typical Regional Levels
The median measurement of 5.25 pCi/L provides a central tendency for uranium-radium activity in sampled wells within Bernalillo County’s aquifer 110ALVM.
Range Shows Variability Across Sampled Wells
Reported values range up to 66.0 pCi/L, reflecting natural variation depending on well location and depth (18 to 57 feet). This does not imply all wells share these levels.
No Samples Exceeded Federal Thresholds
Though activity was detected in all samples, none surpassed federal limits, indicating monitoring results do not establish an area-wide health exceedance.
Household Fixtures and Appliances Most Affected
Water Used for Drinking and Cooking
Filtration and treatment focus on potable water lines where uranium-radium could impact safety and taste when concentrations are elevated.
Ice Makers and Coffee Machines
These appliances use filtered water volumes that benefit from uranium-radium reduction to avoid buildup and taste alteration.
Other Household Uses Are Less Sensitive
Washing machines, toilets, and irrigation systems generally do not require specific uranium-radium treatment as exposure is limited and water is not consumed.
Understanding Certified Laboratory Test Reports for Uranium-Radium
Alpha Particle Activity Measurement
Tests report the concentration of alpha particle activity in picocuries per liter (pCi/L), a key indicator of combined uranium and radium presence.
Comparison to Federal Guidelines
Reports include reference to federal maximum contaminant levels. Concentrations below these do not require treatment but can guide decisions.
Interpreting Results for Your Household
Use laboratory results to compare with regional data and determine if treatment equipment like the Fleck Uranium & Radium System should be purchased. This system ships ready to configure for home use.
By following this checklist, Bernalillo County households can systematically assess uranium-radium concerns from initial observation to certified testing. Treating water with the appropriate equipment supports effective management based on informed decision-making.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2016-08-04. 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 Alpha particle in the 110ALVM aquifer (Bernalillo County): 30 results from 15 wells, median 5.25 pCi/L, range 1.0-66.0 pCi/L; none above any federal threshold
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