Good Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
5.6
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBA | 40.6 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 32.2 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 32.1 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 31.7 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFHpA | 27.7 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFOA | 24.4 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFHxA | 21.1 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFBA | 14.1 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Wilmington, Delaware (19802) receives an overall grade of B (Good) with a score of 72 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is roughly in line with the Delaware state average of 77. The area is served by 2 water systems providing water to approximately 208,471 people, using surface water sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. Notably, 3 PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals.
A score of 72/100 means the water in Wilmington, DE is generally good and meets EPA standards, with only minor areas of concern. There may be low levels of detectable contaminants or a small number of non-critical violations. Most residents can feel comfortable with their tap water quality, though basic filtration can provide an extra layer of protection.
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 Wilmington, Delaware receives a grade of B (Good) with a score of 72/100. 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 19802 is served by 2 water systems using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 208,471 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.
Lead was detected at 5.6 ppb in Wilmington, Delaware. While this is below the EPA action level of 15 ppb, it exceeds the health guideline of 1 ppb recommended by health organizations. Consider a certified lead filter, especially if you have young children.
Yes — 15 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Wilmington, Delaware, and 3 exceed 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 Wilmington, Delaware have received 3 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 Wilmington, Delaware 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.