Fair Water Quality
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Chatham, Michigan (49816) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 64 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 14 points below the Michigan state average of 78. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by Chatham, a groundwater system providing water to approximately 300 people. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 52 violations, including 1 health-based violations.
A score of 64/100 indicates fair water quality in Chatham, MI. While the water meets minimum federal standards, there are noteworthy concerns — either elevated contaminant levels approaching regulatory limits, a moderate violation history, or both. Residents may want to review specific contaminant data and consider targeted filtration, especially for sensitive groups like children and pregnant women.
Common Questions
Tap water in Chatham, Michigan receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 64/100. While it generally meets minimum federal standards, there are some areas of concern including violation history or elevated contaminant levels. Sensitive populations (children, pregnant women, elderly) may want to consider additional filtration.
ZIP code 49816 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 300 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.
No lead data is currently available for ZIP code 49816. This may mean lead testing results haven't been reported recently, or the serving water system uses monitoring waivers. You can request a free lead test kit from most water utilities or purchase a certified home testing kit.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Chatham, Michigan 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 Chatham, Michigan have received 52 violations in the last 5 years, including 1 health-based violation. 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 Chatham, Michigan 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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