Fair Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copper |
1970.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb | Exceeded |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBA | 9.7 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 3.4 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Charlotte, North Carolina (28211) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 62 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 72. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 3 water systems providing water to approximately 1,163,810 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Copper that warrant attention. PFAS testing detected 2 compounds, all currently below EPA limits. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 41 violations, including 1 health-based violations.
A score of 62/100 indicates fair water quality in Charlotte, 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.
Health Information
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 Charlotte, North Carolina receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 62/100. 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 28211 is served by 3 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 1,163,810 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
No lead data is currently available for ZIP code 28211. 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.
2 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Charlotte, North Carolina, but all are currently below EPA limits. While levels are within regulatory standards, some health organizations recommend minimizing any PFAS exposure. Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filters can reduce PFAS levels.
Water systems serving Charlotte, North Carolina have received 41 violations in the last 5 years, including 1 health-based violation. 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, copper), residents in Charlotte, 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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