Good Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
8.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Copper |
1410.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb | Exceeded |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GenX (HFPO-DA) | 8.4 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Below limit |
| PFBS | 4.6 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
| PFPeA | 4.4 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHxS | 4.1 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Below limit |
| PFBS | 3.7 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Wilmington, North Carolina (28409) receives an overall grade of B (Good) with a score of 79 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 7 points above the North Carolina state average of 72. The area is served by 4 water systems providing water to approximately 210,362 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead, Copper that warrant attention. PFAS testing detected 5 compounds, all currently below EPA limits.
A score of 79/100 means the water in Wilmington, 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.
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
Based on EPA data, tap water in Wilmington, North Carolina receives a grade of B (Good) with a score of 79/100. 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 28409 is served by 4 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 210,362 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead was detected at 8.0 ppb in Wilmington, 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.
5 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Wilmington, 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 Wilmington, North Carolina have received 7 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 (lead, PFAS, copper), residents in Wilmington, 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.