Failing Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
16.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Exceeded |
| Copper |
1360.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb | Exceeded |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBA | 9.0 ppt | No standard | 500 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 | 3.3 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Raleigh, North Carolina (27609) receives an overall grade of F (Failing) with a score of 19 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 53 points below the North Carolina state average of 72. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 14 water systems providing water to approximately 646,858 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead, Copper that warrant attention. 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 359 violations, including 16 health-based violations.
A score of 19/100 indicates serious water quality failures in Raleigh, NC. The water system has significant violations, contaminant exceedances, or enforcement actions. Residents should strongly consider using a certified water filtration system for drinking and cooking water, requesting their utility's latest test results, and potentially having their water independently tested.
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.
Copper can leach into water from copper plumbing, especially in newer homes or when water is acidic.
Short-term exposure above 1,300 ppb can cause gastrointestinal distress. Long-term exposure may cause liver or kidney damage. People with Wilson's disease are especially vulnerable.
Copper pipes, fittings, and faucets are the most common source. Corrosive (low-pH) water accelerates copper leaching.
If copper levels are elevated, flush pipes by running water for 15–30 seconds before use. Reverse osmosis and distillation systems effectively remove copper.
Common Questions
Tap water in Raleigh, North Carolina receives a grade of F (Failing) with a score of 19/100. This indicates significant water quality concerns based on violation history, contaminant levels, or enforcement actions. We recommend reviewing the specific contaminants detected below and considering a certified water filter.
ZIP code 27609 is served by 14 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 646,858 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Yes — lead levels in Raleigh, North Carolina are 16.0 ppb, which exceeds the EPA action level of 15 ppb. This is a serious concern. We strongly recommend using a certified lead-removal filter for all drinking and cooking water, and having your water independently tested.
Yes — 5 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 359 violations in the last 5 years, including 16 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, PFAS, copper), 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.