Failing Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
6.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Copper |
1400.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb | Exceeded |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 7.4 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above final MCL value |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in ZIP code 00725 (00725) receives an overall grade of F (Failing) with a score of 34 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 18 water systems providing water to approximately 85,907 people, using groundwater and surface water sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead, Copper that warrant attention. Notably, 1 PFAS compound exceeds 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 71 violations, including 16 health-based violations.
A score of 34/100 flags the highest level of concern in the US Water Score model for ZIP 00725. Public records may include significant violations, contaminant exceedances, or enforcement actions. Use official utility reports and qualified professional guidance for current safety decisions.
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.
Copper can leach into water from copper plumbing, especially in newer homes or when water is acidic.
Short-term exposure above 1,300 ppb can cause gastrointestinal distress. Long-term exposure may cause liver or kidney damage. People with Wilson's disease are especially vulnerable.
Copper pipes, fittings, and faucets are the most common source. Corrosive (low-pH) water accelerates copper leaching.
If copper levels are elevated, flush pipes by running water for 15–30 seconds before use. Reverse osmosis and distillation systems effectively remove copper.
Common Questions
Tap water in ZIP code 00725 receives a grade of F (Failing) with a score of 34/100. 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 00725 is served by 18 water systems using groundwater, surface water sources, providing water to approximately 85,907 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead was reported at 6.0 ppb in public-system records for ZIP code 00725. 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 — 1 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving ZIP code 00725, and 1 exceeds 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 00725 have received 71 violations in the last 5 years, including 16 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, copper), residents in ZIP code 00725 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.