Excellent Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
1.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOA | 5.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Manchester, New Hampshire (03109) receives an overall grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 87 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 10 points above the New Hampshire state average of 77. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by 10 water systems providing water to approximately 124,354 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Notably, 1 PFAS compound exceeds EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals.
A score of 87/100 means the water supply in Manchester, NH meets or exceeds all EPA standards with minimal issues. Contaminant levels are well within safe limits, and the water system has maintained a strong compliance record. While no water supply is guaranteed perfect at the tap due to household plumbing, this is among the best-scoring areas in the country.
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 EPA data, tap water in Manchester, New Hampshire receives a grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 87/100. This indicates the water meets federal standards and has relatively few concerns. However, individual homes may still have localized issues such as lead from old plumbing.
ZIP code 03109 is served by 10 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 124,354 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead levels in Manchester, New Hampshire are 1.0 ppb, which is at or below the health guideline of 1 ppb. This is a positive result, though periodic testing is still recommended.
Yes — 1 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Manchester, New Hampshire, 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 Manchester, New Hampshire have received 1 violation 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 (PFAS), residents in Manchester, New Hampshire 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.
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