Arsenic in Water / Arsenic Contamination Questions

 

Q: Is arsenic found in Arizona water? 

A: "In Arizona, arsenic is present in almost all groundwater supplies. Because private wells are the primary source of water for rural residents in Arizona, it is important to make sure the water is safe to drink." (Arizona Department of Health Services)

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We recently installed a reverse osmosis water filtration system for a local client. When we received their water test results, we found that they had the 4th highest level of arsenic ever reported in Yavapai County! We're grateful they contacted us so we could help them reduce the arsenic and help prevent further damage. 

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Q: How dangerous is arsenic? 

A: Arsenic consumption can lead to arsenic poisoning, which is very dangerous and can cause long-term adverse health effects, including kidney disease, cancer, or even death.

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Q: How do I know if I’ve been exposed to arsenic? What are the signs or symptoms of arsenic exposure?

A: If you’re experiencing the following symptoms and cannot identify an underlying cause, talk with your healthcare provider immediately: nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, abdominal pain, headaches, numbness and tingling in your extremities, muscle cramping, or skin changes.

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Q: Does boiling my water before drinking it remove arsenic?

A:  No. Boiling water does not eliminate arsenic from your drinking water. In fact, boiling water may increase the concentration of arsenic. You need to get it professionally removed.

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Q: How do I prevent arsenic contamination in my home?

A:  The first step to preventing arsenic contamination in your home is to get your water properly tested. That’s where we come in. We offer comprehensive well and water system testing to check for contaminants, including arsenic, lead, nitrates, and more. Our testing turnaround time is fast and efficient. We expedite your water samples so that you can get answers quickly.

 

If we find arsenic levels in your water, we will work with you to determine the best solutions that fit your needs. A reverse osmosis water filtration system can be one of the most effective ways to reduce arsenic levels in your water, depending on your water source, your water usage, and the amount of water available.

 

If you have questions about the arsenic testing and treatment process or how to protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of arsenic poisoning, contact us today.

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Well Pump System Questions

 

Q: My well is working fine, so I don't need to worry about it, right?

A: The Department of Health recommends that well owners have their water tested every year. The soil near your home, seasonal changes, and other impacts can change the quality of your water over time. It is also a good idea to schedule a check-up on your well. It is much less expensive to keep a well running with regular check-ups than to wait. 

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Q: What should I do when my pump stops running?

A: Turn the power to the pump OFF. Wait 3 min and turn the power back on to the pump. Check and see if you have any flashing lights and/or fault codes. If your pump is still not working call us.

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Q: What should I do if my pump is still running but I have no water?

A: Turn off power to the pump and call Alcorn Pump and Filtration.

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Q: What should I do if my water pressure drops or I’m losing water pressure?

A: Turn off the power to pump, wait 3 minutes and then turn the power back on. Look for any reset buttons or fault reset buttons. If the water pressure is still low, you may have a leak or another problem. Call Alcorn Pump and Filtration.

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Q: What should I do if I have water and my system seems to be working but I can only run 1 or 2 items in my home at a time?  Or my water pressure and GPM (gallons per minute) drop?

A: You may be using more water than your pump/well can produce. Your well is constantly changing so this can be normal at times. There are things that can be done to increase your water volume to your home. Call us and we can help you understand the options available to you.

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Q: What should I do if I lose power and have no water?

A: Turn off the power to your pump. Note: If you have a generator and you know it is the right size for your pump system, you may be able to hook it up so you can have water. If you are unsure or have questions on this call us first.

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When power returns, turn your power to the pump back on and see if you have water. If you have no water, call Alcorn Pump and Filtration. Power outages can cause well components to fail.

 

Q: What should I do if my well floods?

A: STOP drinking the water!!!! You need to be on a boil advisory until you receive a clean water test. We can help with this. Call Alcorn Pump and Filtration right away.

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Q: What should I do if I am unsure what is going on with my water pump system?

A: If you are unsure, it is always better to be safe and get help with your well system. If you have any questions, feel free to call us. We are here to help - after all, our motto is, “No matter what, do what’s right”

 

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Water Filtration/Water Quality Questions

 

Q: I have a rotten egg smell coming from my water, should I be worried?

A: Egg smell in water is caused by sulfur. This change can happen in water for many reasons. Sulfur is not harmful but does not taste or smell good. Call Alcorn Pump and Filtration if you have questions and we will be happy to help and talk through some options to fix the quality of your drinking water.

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Q: I have orange staining in the sinks and bathrooms within my home, what could this be?

A: Orange staining is due to iron. There are different types and levels of iron in your well water. Iron can build up over time and cause different problems with your well, well pump and plumbing within your home. It can also affect household appliances. Call us to schedule a check of your water and system, we will help you understand your options to improve your water.​

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Q: I have slimy and discolored water, what should I do?

A: This may be due to bacteria or minerals within your water. You should stop drinking the water, get your water tested ASAP and be on a boil advisory until you have a clean water test. Call Alcorn Pump and Filtration – we can help you with a water test and also talk about options for getting your water clean. 

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Q: I have white buildup in my home around my faucets, what could this be?

A: The white stuff you see around sinks and faucets is a result of minerals carried through your water system. You are dealing with hardness, limescale, and calcium buildup. This is not harmful to your health but may be bad news for your household appliances. Call us to discuss options on getting your water cleaner!

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Q: I have black specks and sand-like particles coming through my water, what could this be?

A: Black specks may be caused by manganese and/or iron in the water system. It can be also caused by sand/silt. This is not harmful to drink but can be unpleasant, leaving a crunchy texture to your water. This can, however, damage your well pump and other appliances. Give Alcorn Pump & Filtration a call and we can check your well pump and provide you options and advice on improving water quality.

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General Questions

 

Q: Are there tax benefits to using a water catchment system? 

A: In Arizona, the state provides a tax credit for homeowners for the installation of “grey water” conservation systems, meaning you can get a tax credit on the installation of your qualifying system up to $1.00 per gallon.