US Water Score: C
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
0.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Ethelsville, Alabama (35461) receives an overall grade of C (Mixed record-based signals) with a score of 65 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 13 points below the Alabama state average of 78. The area is served by Pickens County Water Authority, a groundwater system providing water to approximately 14,364 people. The area has 43 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 65/100 indicates fair performance in the US Water Score model for Ethelsville, 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
Ethelsville, Alabama receives an internal US Water Score grade of C (Fair) with a score of 65/100. 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 35461 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 14,364 people. Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil, often requiring less treatment. However, it can be vulnerable to contamination from underground sources like naturally occurring arsenic, nitrates from agriculture, or PFAS from industrial sites.
Lead levels in Ethelsville, Alabama are 0.0 ppb, which is at or below the health guideline of 1 ppb. This is a positive result, though periodic testing is still recommended.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Ethelsville, Alabama 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 Ethelsville, Alabama have received 43 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.
Water in Ethelsville, Alabama 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.