Fair Water Quality
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBA | 9.0 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFBA | 7.3 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 7.0 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 6.6 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFOS | 5.6 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFPeA | 4.3 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 4.2 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFBS | 3.4 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Raleigh, North Carolina (27607) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 69 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is roughly in line with the North Carolina state average of 72. The area is served by 2 water systems providing water to approximately 864,000 people, using surface water sources. Notably, 1 PFAS compound exceeds EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 10 violations, including 6 health-based violations.
A score of 69/100 indicates fair water quality in Raleigh, NC. 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 Raleigh, North Carolina receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 69/100. 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 27607 is served by 2 water systems using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 864,000 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.
No lead data is currently available for ZIP code 27607. 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 — 9 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Raleigh, North Carolina, and 1 exceeds 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 Raleigh, North Carolina have received 10 violations in the last 5 years, including 6 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 Raleigh, North Carolina 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.