Poor Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
5.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 4.2 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above final MCL value |
| PFOA | 4.1 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above final MCL value |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in ZIP code 00703 (00703) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 38 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 10 water systems providing water to approximately 17,468 people, using groundwater and surface water sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. Notably, 2 PFAS compounds exceed the EPA final MCL value used for comparison — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 69 violations, including 12 health-based violations.
A score of 38/100 flags significant system-level concerns in the US Water Score model for ZIP 00703. These may include violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS detections. Review the detailed records, your utility's Consumer Confidence Report, and qualified local guidance.
Health Information
Lead is a toxic metal that can leach from aging pipes and plumbing fixtures.
Even low levels of lead exposure can cause developmental delays in children, kidney damage, and cardiovascular effects in adults. The EPA action level is 15 ppb, but health experts recommend no safe level of lead in drinking water.
Lead enters water primarily through corrosion of lead service lines, lead solder, and brass fixtures — especially in homes built before 1986.
If lead is detected above 1 ppb, consider using a certified lead-removal filter (NSF/ANSI 53) for drinking and cooking water. Run cold water for 30 seconds before use if water has been sitting in pipes.
Common Questions
Tap water in ZIP code 00703 receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 38/100. This indicates significant water quality concerns based on violation history, contaminant levels, or enforcement actions. We recommend reviewing the specific contaminants detected below and considering a certified water filter.
ZIP code 00703 is served by 10 water systems using groundwater, surface water sources, providing water to approximately 17,468 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead was reported at 5.0 ppb in public-system records for ZIP code 00703. This is below the currently applicable EPA action level of 15 ppb, but may be above more protective health guidance; EPA's future LCRI action level is 10 ppb. Household plumbing can materially change tap-level exposure, so consider certified filtration and individual tap testing, especially where children are present.
Yes — 2 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving ZIP code 00703, and 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. PFAS are persistent chemicals linked to cancer, immune system effects, and developmental issues. A reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter certified for PFAS removal is recommended.
Water systems serving ZIP code 00703 have received 69 violations in the last 5 years, including 12 health-based violations. Violations can range from paperwork issues (monitoring & reporting) to serious health-based violations where contaminant levels exceeded safe limits. Review the violation details above for specifics.
Based on detected contaminants (lead, PFAS), residents in ZIP code 00703 should consider: Reverse osmosis (RO) system — most effective for PFAS, lead, and other contaminants. Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.