Failing Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
18.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Exceeded |
| Copper |
3480.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb | Exceeded |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Ellicott City, Maryland (21042) receives an overall grade of F (Failing) with a score of 34 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 43 points below the Maryland state average of 77. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 4 water systems providing water to approximately 681 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead, Copper that warrant attention. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 128 violations, including 6 health-based violations.
A score of 34/100 indicates serious water quality failures in Ellicott City, MD. The water system has significant violations, contaminant exceedances, or enforcement actions. Residents should strongly consider using a certified water filtration system for drinking and cooking water, requesting their utility's latest test results, and potentially having their water independently tested.
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.
Copper can leach into water from copper plumbing, especially in newer homes or when water is acidic.
Short-term exposure above 1,300 ppb can cause gastrointestinal distress. Long-term exposure may cause liver or kidney damage. People with Wilson's disease are especially vulnerable.
Copper pipes, fittings, and faucets are the most common source. Corrosive (low-pH) water accelerates copper leaching.
If copper levels are elevated, flush pipes by running water for 15–30 seconds before use. Reverse osmosis and distillation systems effectively remove copper.
Common Questions
Tap water in Ellicott City, Maryland receives a grade of F (Failing) with a score of 34/100. 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 21042 is served by 4 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 681 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Yes — lead levels in Ellicott City, Maryland are 18.0 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.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Ellicott City, Maryland 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 Ellicott City, Maryland have received 128 violations in the last 5 years, including 6 health-based violations. 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, copper), residents in Ellicott City, Maryland 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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