US Water Score: A
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Durham, New Hampshire (03824) receives an overall grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 100 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 11 points above the New Hampshire state average of 89. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by 4 water systems providing water to approximately 16,000 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. The area has a clean violation record over the past 5 years — a positive indicator of consistent water quality management.
A score of 100/100 means public water-system records for Durham, NH show relatively few concerns in the US Water Score model. This is an internal score, not an EPA safety rating, and it does not guarantee conditions at any specific tap.
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, Durham, New Hampshire receives an internal US Water Score grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 100/100. 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 03824 is served by 4 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 16,000 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 Durham, New Hampshire are 266.0 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 Durham, New Hampshire 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 Durham, New Hampshire have zero violations in the last 5 years. This is a positive indicator of consistent regulatory compliance and water quality management.
Based on detected contaminants (lead), residents in Durham, New Hampshire 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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