US Water Score: C
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
100.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | |
| Copper |
48575.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb |
UCMR5 occurrence results are screening information, not a finding of regulatory compliance or noncompliance. PFAS rules and compliance dates are evolving.
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GenX (HFPO-DA) | 9.2 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Below comparison value |
| PFOS | 8.6 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above comparison value |
| PFOA | 6.9 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above comparison value |
| PFPeA | 6.8 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
| PFHxA | 5.7 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFBS | 5.2 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below comparison value |
| PFHpA | 3.0 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Columbia, South Carolina (29203) receives an overall grade of C (Mixed record-based signals) with a score of 68 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 20 points below the South Carolina state average of 88. The area is served by 103 water systems providing water to approximately 319,500 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Notably, 2 PFAS compounds exceed the EPA final MCL value used for comparison — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 42 violations, including 2 health-based violations.
A score of 68/100 indicates fair performance in the US Water Score model for Columbia, SC. The records show noteworthy concerns, such as elevated contaminant levels, violation history, or both. Review the detailed contaminant data and official utility reports before making decisions.
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
Columbia, South Carolina receives an internal US Water Score grade of C (Fair) with a score of 68/100. Our model found some system-level concerns, such as violation history or elevated contaminant levels. Review your utility's Consumer Confidence Report and consult a qualified professional for household-specific health questions.
ZIP code 29203 is served by 103 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 319,500 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead levels in the public-system record for Columbia, South Carolina are 100.0 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.
Yes — 7 PFAS compounds were detected in records associated with water serving Columbia, South Carolina, and 2 results exceeded the numerical EPA MCL value used for comparison. UCMR5 occurrence results alone are not a regulatory compliance determination. PFAS rules and compliance timelines are evolving; verify current information with the utility and EPA.
Water systems serving Columbia, South Carolina have received 42 violations in the last 5 years, including 2 health-based violations. 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 Columbia, South 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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