Good Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
1.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 20.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFBS | 6.2 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
| PFHxS | 6.2 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Below limit |
| PFOA | 5.9 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFHxA | 4.1 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 3.8 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Salisbury, Maryland (21801) receives an overall grade of B (Good) with a score of 73 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 77. The area is served by 2 water systems providing water to approximately 30,383 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 3 violations, including 1 health-based violations.
A score of 73/100 means the water in Salisbury, MD 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 Salisbury, Maryland receives a grade of B (Good) with a score of 73/100. 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 21801 is served by 2 water systems using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 30,383 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 Salisbury, Maryland are 1.0 ppb, which is at or below the health guideline of 1 ppb. This is a positive result, though periodic testing is still recommended.
Yes — 6 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Salisbury, 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 Salisbury, 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.
Based on detected contaminants (PFAS), residents in Salisbury, 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.
Explore Nearby