Failing Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
9.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBS | 6.5 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
| PFOS | 5.8 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFBA | 5.2 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFOA | 4.1 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Durham, North Carolina (27703) receives an overall grade of F (Failing) with a score of 26 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 46 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 37 water systems providing water to approximately 328,140 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. 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 2267 violations, including 63 health-based violations.
A score of 26/100 indicates serious water quality failures in Durham, 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.
Common Questions
Tap water in Durham, North Carolina receives a grade of F (Failing) with a score of 26/100. 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 27703 is served by 37 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 328,140 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead was detected at 9.0 ppb in Durham, North Carolina. 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.
Yes — 4 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Durham, North Carolina, 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 Durham, North Carolina have received 2267 violations in the last 5 years, including 63 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), residents in Durham, 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.
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