Record-only indicator: C
Not a safety rating. Missing or old measurements can produce a high score.
Coverage: 103/103 mapped systems have a dated lead result; 36/103 have copper results; 1/103 have UCMR monitoring.
| Contaminant | Reported value or bound | Historical comparison value | Interpretation | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
100.0 ppbPeriod end: 12/31/2025
|
15 ppb | Largest reported value or bound among mapped systems; not necessarily the largest actual concentration. | Above comparison value |
| Copper |
48575.0 ppbPeriod end: 12/31/1995
|
1300 ppb | Largest reported value or bound among mapped systems; not necessarily the largest actual concentration. | Above comparison value |
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 | Interpretation | 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 | No standard | 100 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFHpA | 3.0 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
Public-record summary
Record-only indicator — incomplete or old records can produce a high score. A score of 100 is not a safety finding. Coverage: 103/103 mapped systems have a dated lead result; 36/103 have copper results; 1/103 have UCMR monitoring. Tap water quality in Columbia, South Carolina (29203) receives an record-only indicator 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. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead, Copper that warrant attention. 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 41 violations, including 2 health-based violations.
Grade C summarizes the records available to this model, not household safety. Missing, bounded or old measurements can produce a high score, including 100. Review coverage, dates and the current utility report before interpreting this indicator.
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
The record-only indicator is C (68/100). It cannot determine whether your tap water is safe. Missing, bounded or old measurements can produce a high score. Check the coverage and sampling dates below and your utility's current notices.
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.
The largest reported lead value or bound is 100.0 ppb, for the sampling period ending 12/31/2025. This is a system-level 90th-percentile record, not a measurement at your tap. Compare the sampling date and original utility report before interpreting it.
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 41 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.
This public-record indicator cannot select household treatment. Confirm your supplier, current utility report and tap-testing results first; match any treatment to a certified contaminant-reduction claim and follow its maintenance instructions.
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