US Water Score: A
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
0.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Bear Branch, Kentucky (41714) receives an overall grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 100 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 10 points above the Kentucky state average of 90. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by Hyden Leslie Co Water District, a surface water system providing water to approximately 9,614 people. The area has a clean violation record over the past 5 years — a positive indicator of consistent water quality management.
A score of 100/100 means public water-system records for Bear Branch, KY show relatively few concerns in the US Water Score model. This is an internal score, not an EPA safety rating, and it does not guarantee conditions at any specific tap.
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
Based on public water-system records, Bear Branch, Kentucky receives an internal US Water Score grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 100/100. This indicates relatively few system-level concerns in our model, but it is not an EPA safety rating and does not guarantee tap conditions inside individual homes.
ZIP code 41714 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 9,614 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 Bear Branch, Kentucky 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 Bear Branch, Kentucky 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 Bear Branch, Kentucky have zero violations in the last 5 years. This is a positive indicator of consistent regulatory compliance and water quality management.
Water in Bear Branch, Kentucky 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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