Fair Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
11.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFPeA | 3.3 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Frederick, Maryland (21704) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 57 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 20 points below the Maryland state average of 77. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 16 water systems providing water to approximately 85,841 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. PFAS testing detected 1 compound, all currently below EPA limits. The area has 28 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 57/100 indicates fair water quality in Frederick, MD. While the water meets minimum federal standards, there are noteworthy concerns — either elevated contaminant levels approaching regulatory limits, a moderate violation history, or both. Residents may want to review specific contaminant data and consider targeted filtration, especially for sensitive groups like children and pregnant women.
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
Tap water in Frederick, Maryland receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 57/100. While it generally meets minimum federal standards, there are some areas of concern including violation history or elevated contaminant levels. Sensitive populations (children, pregnant women, elderly) may want to consider additional filtration.
ZIP code 21704 is served by 16 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 85,841 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead was detected at 11.0 ppb in Frederick, Maryland. 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.
1 PFAS compound were detected in water serving Frederick, Maryland, but all are currently below EPA limits. While levels are within regulatory standards, some health organizations recommend minimizing any PFAS exposure. Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filters can reduce PFAS levels.
Water systems serving Frederick, Maryland have received 28 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 Frederick, Maryland 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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