US Water Score: C
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
1.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFPeA | 7.7 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
| PFBA | 6.0 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFOS | 5.9 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above comparison value |
| PFHxA | 5.7 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFBS | 3.6 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below comparison value |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Bessemer, Alabama (35020) 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 10 points below the Alabama state average of 78. The area is served by Bessemer Water Service, a surface water system providing water to approximately 86,091 people. Notably, 1 PFAS compound exceeds the EPA final MCL value used for comparison — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals.
A score of 68/100 indicates fair performance in the US Water Score model for Bessemer, AL. 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.
Common Questions
Bessemer, Alabama 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 35020 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 86,091 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.
Lead levels in Bessemer, Alabama are 1.0 ppb, which is at or below the health guideline of 1 ppb. This is a positive result, though periodic testing is still recommended.
Yes — 5 PFAS compounds were detected in records associated with water serving Bessemer, Alabama, and 1 result 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 Bessemer, Alabama have received 4 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 (PFAS), residents in Bessemer, Alabama 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.