Poor Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
15.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBS | 7.6 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
| PFOS | 6.7 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFPeA | 6.1 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHxS | 4.2 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Below limit |
| PFOA | 4.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Below limit |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Kalamazoo, Michigan (49001) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 43 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 36 points below the Michigan state average of 78. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 4 water systems providing water to approximately 193,202 people, using groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. Notably, 1 PFAS compound exceeds EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. The area has 104 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 43/100 signals poor water quality in Kalamazoo, MI. Significant issues have been identified, which may include multiple violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS contamination. We recommend reviewing the detailed contaminant data below, considering a certified water filter, and checking your utility's Consumer Confidence Report for the latest information.
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 Kalamazoo, Michigan receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 43/100. 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 49001 is served by 4 water systems using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 193,202 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 was detected at 15.0 ppb in Kalamazoo, Michigan. 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 Kalamazoo, Michigan, and 1 exceeds 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 Kalamazoo, Michigan have received 104 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 (lead, PFAS), residents in Kalamazoo, Michigan 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.