US Water Score: D
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
5.6
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBA | 8.5 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| PFOS | 4.5 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above comparison value |
| PFOA | 4.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Below comparison value |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in New Orleans, Louisiana (70114) receives an overall grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 48 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 41 points below the Louisiana state average of 89. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by New Orleans Algiers Water Works, a surface water system providing water to approximately 52,785 people. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. Notably, 1 PFAS compound exceeds the EPA final MCL value used for comparison — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 6 violations, including 5 health-based violations.
A score of 48/100 flags significant system-level concerns in the US Water Score model for New Orleans, LA. These may include violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS detections. Review the detailed records, your utility's Consumer Confidence Report, and qualified local guidance.
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 New Orleans, Louisiana receives a grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 48/100. 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 70114 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 52,785 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 reported at 5.6 ppb in public-system records for New Orleans, Louisiana. This is below the currently applicable EPA action level of 15 ppb, but may be above more protective health guidance; EPA's future LCRI action level is 10 ppb. Household plumbing can materially change tap-level exposure, so consider certified filtration and individual tap testing, especially where children are present.
Yes — 3 PFAS compounds were detected in records associated with water serving New Orleans, Louisiana, 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 New Orleans, Louisiana have received 6 violations in the last 5 years, including 5 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 New Orleans, Louisiana 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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