Fair Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
3.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Hickory, North Carolina (28601) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 66 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 6 points below the North Carolina state average of 72. The area is served by 6 water systems providing water to approximately 107,239 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 19 violations, including 1 health-based violations.
A score of 66/100 indicates fair water quality in Hickory, 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
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 Hickory, North Carolina receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 66/100. 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 28601 is served by 6 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 107,239 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead was detected at 3.0 ppb in Hickory, 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.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Hickory, 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 Hickory, North Carolina have received 19 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 (lead), residents in Hickory, 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.