Fair Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
2.4
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Grafton, West Virginia (26354) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 56 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 11 points below the West Virginia state average of 67. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 6 water systems providing water to approximately 20,692 people, using surface water sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 157 violations, including 2 health-based violations.
A score of 56/100 indicates fair water quality in Grafton, WV. 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 Grafton, West Virginia receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 56/100. 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 26354 is served by 6 water systems using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 20,692 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 was detected at 2.4 ppb in Grafton, West Virginia. 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.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Grafton, West 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 Grafton, West Virginia have received 157 violations in the last 5 years, including 2 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 (lead), residents in Grafton, West Virginia should consider: NSF/ANSI 53 certified filter — specifically rated for lead reduction. Pitcher filters (like Brita Longlast or PUR) and under-sink systems both work. Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.
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