Failing Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
12.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBA | 8.3 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFOS | 7.3 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFOS | 6.2 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFBA | 5.8 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFOA | 4.3 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Smithland, Kentucky (42081) receives an overall grade of F (Failing) with a score of 24 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 60 points below the Kentucky state average of 84. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 3 water systems providing water to approximately 13,289 people, using surface water sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. Notably, 3 PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 68 violations, including 47 health-based violations.
A score of 24/100 indicates serious water quality failures in Smithland, KY. The water system has significant violations, contaminant exceedances, or enforcement actions. Residents should strongly consider using a certified water filtration system for drinking and cooking water, requesting their utility's latest test results, and potentially having their water independently tested.
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
Tap water in Smithland, Kentucky receives a grade of F (Failing) with a score of 24/100. This indicates significant water quality concerns based on violation history, contaminant levels, or enforcement actions. We recommend reviewing the specific contaminants detected below and considering a certified water filter.
ZIP code 42081 is served by 3 water systems using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 13,289 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 was detected at 12.0 ppb in Smithland, Kentucky. While this is below the EPA action level of 15 ppb, it exceeds the health guideline of 1 ppb recommended by health organizations. Consider a certified lead filter, especially if you have young children.
Yes — 5 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Smithland, Kentucky, and 3 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. PFAS are persistent chemicals linked to cancer, immune system effects, and developmental issues. A reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter certified for PFAS removal is recommended.
Water systems serving Smithland, Kentucky have received 68 violations in the last 5 years, including 47 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), residents in Smithland, Kentucky 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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