US Water Score: B
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
17.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Smithfield, Rhode Island (02917) receives an overall grade of B (Moderate-low record-based concern) with a score of 84 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is roughly in line with the Rhode Island state average of 82. The area is served by 5 water systems providing water to approximately 333,142 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 17 violations, including 1 health-based violations.
A score of 84/100 means Smithfield, RI performs well in the US Water Score model, with only minor system-level concerns. Residents should still review their utility's Consumer Confidence Report for official compliance information and household-specific context.
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
Based on public water-system records, Smithfield, Rhode Island receives an internal US Water Score grade of B (Moderate-low record-based concern) with a score of 84/100. This indicates relatively few system-level concerns in our model, but it is not an EPA safety rating and does not guarantee tap conditions inside individual homes.
ZIP code 02917 is served by 5 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 333,142 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead levels in the public-system record for Smithfield, Rhode Island are 17.0 ppb, above the currently applicable EPA action level of 15 ppb. EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements lower that action level to 10 ppb when the new requirements take effect. This system-level result does not measure an individual tap; consider a certified lead-removal filter and independent tap testing.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Smithfield, Rhode Island during the most recent EPA monitoring period (UCMR5). However, not all water systems have been tested for all PFAS compounds, and new contamination can occur over time.
Water systems serving Smithfield, Rhode Island have received 17 violations in the last 5 years, including 1 health-based violation. 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), residents in Smithfield, Rhode Island should consider: NSF/ANSI 53 certified filter — specifically rated for lead reduction. Pitcher filters (like Brita Longlast or PUR) and under-sink systems both work. Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.
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