Fair Water Quality
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFPeA | 9.2 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 6.2 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFOS | 6.1 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFBA | 5.1 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFBS | 4.9 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
| PFOA | 4.8 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFHxS | 3.4 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Below limit |
| PFHpA | 3.0 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Middletown, Maryland (21769) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 67 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 10 points below the Maryland state average of 77. The area is served by 2 water systems providing water to approximately 4,363 people, using groundwater sources. Notably, 2 PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 5 violations, including 4 health-based violations.
A score of 67/100 indicates fair water quality in Middletown, 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.
Common Questions
Tap water in Middletown, Maryland receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 67/100. 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 21769 is served by 2 water systems using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 4,363 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.
No lead data is currently available for ZIP code 21769. This may mean lead testing results haven't been reported recently, or the serving water system uses monitoring waivers. You can request a free lead test kit from most water utilities or purchase a certified home testing kit.
Yes — 8 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Middletown, Maryland, and 2 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 Middletown, Maryland have received 5 violations in the last 5 years, including 4 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 (PFAS), residents in Middletown, 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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