Why arsenic shows up
Arsenic occurs naturally in rock and soil and dissolves into groundwater. It’s a documented concern across parts of the western U.S., the upper Midwest, and New England — and in Central Valley / Sacramento-region groundwater communities (including documented EWG detections in Elk Grove).
EPA limits vs health guidelines
The federal MCL is 10 ppb. EWG’s health guideline is far stricter (0.004 ppb). A result can be “legal” and still above health-protective guidance. Always read both numbers on your report.
How to test
- City water: utility CCR + EWG Tap Water Database + EPA UCMR where applicable.
- Private well: state-certified lab panel (arsenic should be on every western-well panel).
Full testing guide · ZIP lookup
Treatment options that work
Common approaches: adsorptive media (including specialized iron-based or ceramic media), reverse osmosis, and ion exchange configured for arsenic speciation (As III vs As V matters). Point-of-use at the kitchen is often the right economic choice; whole-home arsenic treatment is used when multiple taps need coverage.
Crystal Flow / TipaTech options
- T-18 includes ceramic adsorption media designed to assist in reducing arsenic-related compounds (performance varies by source water).
- Arsenic Extension + Seal ($199) — source-specific T-18 add-on when your report documents arsenic or certain radiological exceedances.
- LotusDY at the kitchen — No-Smosis™ ~0.007 µ selective membrane for drinking-water polish.
Local proof point: Elk Grove arsenic, chromium-6 & PFAS profile.
Have an arsenic number on your report?
Send the PDF or read the number on a 10-minute call — we’ll say whether T-18, Arsenic Extension, LotusDY, or a different path fits.
Call (916) 400-0725 Arsenic Extension FAQShips free nationwide. Direct install in Northern California; partner installers coordinated elsewhere on request.
FAQ
Can I taste arsenic?
No. Testing is the only way to know.
Does a water softener remove arsenic?
No. Softeners target hardness ions, not arsenic.
Is reverse osmosis required?
Not always. Depends on concentration and speciation. Many homes do well with adsorptive media + a selective-membrane drinking tap. Confirm with post-install testing.