US Water Score: C
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
470.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | |
| Copper |
53000.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 10.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above comparison value |
| PFHxS | 9.8 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Below comparison value |
| PFPeA | 4.6 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
| PFHxA | 4.4 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFBS | 3.0 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below comparison value |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Dayton, Ohio (45427) receives an overall grade of C (Mixed record-based signals) with a score of 61 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 21 points below the Ohio state average of 82. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by Dayton Public Water System, a surface water system providing water to approximately 141,407 people. Notably, 1 PFAS compound exceeds the EPA final MCL value used for comparison — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. The area has a clean violation record over the past 5 years — a positive indicator of consistent water quality management.
A score of 61/100 indicates fair performance in the US Water Score model for Dayton, OH. 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.
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
Dayton, Ohio receives an internal US Water Score grade of C (Fair) with a score of 61/100. 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 45427 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 141,407 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 the public-system record for Dayton, Ohio are 470.0 ppb, above the currently applicable EPA action level of 15 ppb. EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements lower that action level to 10 ppb when the new requirements take effect. This system-level result does not measure an individual tap; consider a certified lead-removal filter and independent tap testing.
Yes — 5 PFAS compounds were detected in records associated with water serving Dayton, Ohio, 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 Dayton, Ohio have zero violations in the last 5 years. This is a positive indicator of consistent regulatory compliance and water quality management.
Based on detected contaminants (lead, PFAS, copper), residents in Dayton, Ohio 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.