Good Water Quality
| 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 (27704) receives an overall grade of B (Good) with a score of 81 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 9 points above the North Carolina state average of 72. The area is served by Durham, City Of, a surface water system providing water to approximately 322,083 people. Notably, 2 PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals.
A score of 81/100 means the water in Durham, NC is generally good and meets EPA standards, with only minor areas of concern. There may be low levels of detectable contaminants or a small number of non-critical violations. Most residents can feel comfortable with their tap water quality, though basic filtration can provide an extra layer of protection.
Common Questions
Based on EPA data, tap water in Durham, North Carolina receives a grade of B (Good) with a score of 81/100. 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 27704 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 322,083 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 27704. 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 — 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 5 violations in the last 5 years. 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 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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