Poor Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
27.7
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Exceeded |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFPeA | 6.1 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFBA | 5.9 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 5.1 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Newport, Rhode Island (02840) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 51 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 11 points below the Rhode Island state average of 62. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by Newport-City Of, a surface water system providing water to approximately 42,155 people. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. PFAS testing detected 3 compounds, all currently below EPA limits. The area has 11 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 51/100 signals poor water quality in Newport, RI. Significant issues have been identified, which may include multiple violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS contamination. We recommend reviewing the detailed contaminant data below, considering a certified water filter, and checking your utility's Consumer Confidence Report for the latest information.
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 Newport, Rhode Island receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 51/100. 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 02840 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 42,155 people. Surface water systems are more susceptible to contamination from agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and weather events, but typically undergo more extensive treatment including filtration and disinfection.
Yes — lead levels in Newport, Rhode Island are 27.7 ppb, which exceeds the EPA action level of 15 ppb. This is a serious concern. We strongly recommend using a certified lead-removal filter for all drinking and cooking water, and having your water independently tested.
3 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Newport, Rhode Island, but all are currently below EPA limits. While levels are within regulatory standards, some health organizations recommend minimizing any PFAS exposure. Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filters can reduce PFAS levels.
Water systems serving Newport, Rhode Island have received 11 violations in the last 5 years. 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 Newport, Rhode Island 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.