Excellent Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
0.7
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Richmond, Virginia (23294) receives an overall grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 100 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 18 points above the Virginia state average of 82. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by Henrico County Water System, a surface water system providing water to approximately 330,000 people. The area has a clean violation record over the past 5 years — a positive indicator of consistent water quality management.
A score of 100/100 means the water supply in Richmond, VA meets or exceeds all EPA standards with minimal issues. Contaminant levels are well within safe limits, and the water system has maintained a strong compliance record. While no water supply is guaranteed perfect at the tap due to household plumbing, this is among the best-scoring areas in the country.
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 Richmond, Virginia receives a grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 100/100. 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 23294 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 330,000 people. Surface water systems are more susceptible to contamination from agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and weather events, but typically undergo more extensive treatment including filtration and disinfection.
Lead levels in Richmond, Virginia are 0.7 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 Richmond, Virginia 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 Richmond, Virginia have zero violations in the last 5 years. This is a positive indicator of consistent regulatory compliance and water quality management.
Water in Richmond, Virginia 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.