Excellent Water Quality
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Hickory, North Carolina (28603) receives an overall grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 93 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 21 points above the North Carolina state average of 72. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by 3 water systems providing water to approximately 81,915 people, using surface water sources. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 1 violations, including 1 health-based violations.
A score of 93/100 means the water supply in Hickory, NC meets or exceeds all EPA standards with minimal issues. Contaminant levels are well within safe limits, and the water system has maintained a strong compliance record. While no water supply is guaranteed perfect at the tap due to household plumbing, this is among the best-scoring areas in the country.
Common Questions
Based on EPA data, tap water in Hickory, North Carolina receives a grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 93/100. 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 28603 is served by 3 water systems using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 81,915 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 28603. 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.
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 1 violation 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.
Water in Hickory, North Carolina shows no major contaminant concerns based on available data. A basic carbon filter can improve taste and reduce chlorine. For extra peace of mind, an NSF-certified pitcher filter or faucet-mount filter provides an affordable layer of protection.
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