US Water Score: B
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
0.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Hanover, Maryland (21076) receives an overall grade of B (Moderate-low record-based concern) with a score of 75 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is roughly in line with the Maryland state average of 80. The area is served by Glen Burnie-Broadneck, a groundwater system providing water to approximately 290,606 people. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 3 violations, including 1 health-based violations.
A score of 75/100 means Hanover, MD 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, Hanover, Maryland receives an internal US Water Score grade of B (Moderate-low record-based concern) with a score of 75/100. 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 21076 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 290,606 people. Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil, often requiring less treatment. However, it can be vulnerable to contamination from underground sources like naturally occurring arsenic, nitrates from agriculture, or PFAS from industrial sites.
Lead levels in Hanover, Maryland are 0.0 ppb, which is at or below the health guideline of 1 ppb. This is a positive result, though periodic testing is still recommended.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Hanover, 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 Hanover, Maryland have received 3 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.
Water in Hanover, Maryland shows no major contaminant concerns based on available data. A basic carbon filter can improve taste and reduce chlorine. For extra peace of mind, an NSF-certified pitcher filter or faucet-mount filter provides an affordable layer of protection.
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