US Water Score: B
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
20.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Gastonia, North Carolina (28052) receives an overall grade of B (Moderate-low record-based concern) with a score of 80 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 10 points below the North Carolina state average of 90. The area is served by Two Rivers Utilities, a surface water system providing water to approximately 93,877 people. The area has a clean violation record over the past 5 years — a positive indicator of consistent water quality management.
A score of 80/100 means Gastonia, NC performs well in the US Water Score model, with only minor system-level concerns. Residents should still review their utility's Consumer Confidence Report for official compliance information and household-specific context.
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
Based on public water-system records, Gastonia, North Carolina receives an internal US Water Score grade of B (Moderate-low record-based concern) with a score of 80/100. This indicates relatively few system-level concerns in our model, but it is not an EPA safety rating and does not guarantee tap conditions inside individual homes.
ZIP code 28052 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 93,877 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 levels in the public-system record for Gastonia, North Carolina are 20.0 ppb, above the currently applicable EPA action level of 15 ppb. EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements lower that action level to 10 ppb when the new requirements take effect. This system-level result does not measure an individual tap; consider a certified lead-removal filter and independent tap testing.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Gastonia, North Carolina 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 Gastonia, North Carolina have zero violations in the last 5 years. This is a positive indicator of consistent regulatory compliance and water quality management.
Based on detected contaminants (lead), residents in Gastonia, North Carolina 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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