Reverse Osmosis Installation — Owings, MD
An Owings homeowner was concerned about nitrates in their well water after a neighbor's test came back elevated. We tested their water and found nitrates at 7.2 ppm — below the 10 ppm EPA limit but above the recommended 5 ppm threshold for infants. We installed a 5-stage reverse osmosis system at the kitchen sink.
The Problem
An Owings homeowner contacted us after learning that a neighbor's well had tested positive for elevated nitrates. They had an infant at home and wanted their water tested. We performed a water quality test and found nitrates at 7.2 ppm — below the EPA maximum contaminant level of 10 ppm but above the 5 ppm threshold that many health authorities recommend for infants under 6 months.
Our Diagnosis
Nitrates at 7.2 ppm presented a low risk for adults but a meaningful risk for the infant. The source was likely agricultural runoff from nearby farmland — common in Calvert County. A whole-house nitrate removal system (ion exchange) was an option but expensive. Given that the primary concern was drinking and cooking water for the infant, a point-of-use reverse osmosis system at the kitchen sink was the most cost-effective solution.
The Repair Process
- 1Comprehensive water quality test — nitrates 7.2 ppm, pH 7.1, hardness 8 gpg, iron 0.3 ppm
- 2Discussed whole-house vs. point-of-use options with homeowner
- 3Installed 5-stage reverse osmosis system under kitchen sink
- 4Dedicated RO faucet installed at kitchen sink
- 5Connected RO system to refrigerator ice maker and water dispenser
- 6Post-installation test confirmed nitrates below 0.5 ppm from RO faucet
- 7Educated homeowner on annual filter replacement schedule
The Outcome
RO system producing water with nitrates below 0.5 ppm — well below any health threshold. Homeowner reported peace of mind for infant formula preparation. Annual filter replacement scheduled.
Key Takeaway
Nitrates in well water are a particular concern for infants under 6 months. If you have a well in an agricultural area and an infant at home, get your water tested. A point-of-use reverse osmosis system is the most cost-effective solution for drinking and cooking water.
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May 2026
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June 2026
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Dunkirk, MD
June 2026
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