RainDance Water Systems Iron & Manganese Filtration Systems

While iron is a well-known issue in groundwater, manganese is an often-forgotten, but troublesome well water issue. There is no federal Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for manganese, but there is a secondary MCL for manganese of 0.05 mg/L. This is considered an aesthetic level, meaning that water with manganese levels over 0.05 mg/L could lead to staining, or a blackish color, on bathroom fixtures or laundry.

Iron, and to a lesser extent Manganese, are common in well water sources across the US. The main complaint with these metals is the reddish/orange or brown/black staining on laundry and appliances. Irrigation water containing iron and manganese will also cause orange staining on buildings, fences and walkways. 

Aside from iron staining problems, drinking water containing high iron and manganese can have a bitter metallic taste. Our filter systems are designed to remove iron and manganese to prevent staining and provide better drinking, cooking, and all water uses.

Iron & Well Water Manganese Problems

What are iron and manganese?

Iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) are metallic elements present in many types of rock. Both are found naturally in ground water in most if not all regions of the US. Aesthetic levels for iron in drinking water is less than or equal to 0.3 mg/L or ppm while the level for manganese in drinking water is less than or equal to 0.05 mg/L or ppm. Water with high levels of iron and manganese may cause staining on plumbing fixtures and laundry. High can cause off color, bad bitter tastes, and rust flakes in the water. Similarity, manganese typically form black particles and also give the water an off color and unpleasant taste.

 

Calcium & Magnesium Hard Water

What is hard water?

Water that is hard contains calcium and magnesium compounds. Rain water is naturally soft - it does not contain any minerals, but as it seeps through the ground it can pick up minerals, such as calcium and magnesium compounds, from the soil and rocks it passes through. If rain water passes through soft rocks like chalk or limestone, it picks up these minerals. If it passes through hard rocks, such as granite or through peaty soils, it does not pick up these minerals and so remains soft. Hard water causes pipes to scale to collect in coffee makers, dishwashers and washing machines. If the scale collects in hot water haeters it shortens their life and makes appliances less efficient. It is also more difficult to work up a lather from soap, washing up liquid and washing powders.

 

Hydrogen Sulfide Water Odor

 

What is sulfur water?

Sulfur in your well water supply is easily recognized by its offensive odor. Hydrogen sulfide gas causes "rotten-egg" or sulfur water smell. High concentrations can also change the taste of the water. As well as, corrode metals such as iron, steel, copper and brass. Hydrogen sulfide amounts of 0.5 mg/l or more are usually noticed, even in cold water. Wells drilled in shale or sandstone, or near coal or oil fields often have hydrogen sulfide present.Hydrogen sulfide may also be produced when sulfate in well water converts to hydrogen sulfide. Certain non-disease-producing bacteria (sulfur bacteria) use the oxygen in the sulfate to form hydrogen sulfide.

 

 

National Secondary Drinking Water Regulations (NSDWRs or secondary standards) are non-enforceable guidelines regulating contaminants that may cause cosmetic effects (such as skin or tooth discoloration) or aesthetic effects (such as taste, odor, or color) in drinking water. EPA recommends secondary standards to water systems but does not require systems to comply. However, states may choose to adopt them as enforceable standards.

 

EPA Secondary Drinking Water Limits For The Following:

Color 15 (color units)

Chloride 250 mg/L 
Corrosivity noncorrosive 
Iron 0.3 mg/L 
Manganese 0.05 mg/L 
Odor 3 threshold odor number 
pH 6.5-8.5 
Sulfate 250 mg/L 
Total Dissolved Solids 500 mg/L