US Water Score: A
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
1.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Ethel, Arkansas (72048) receives an overall grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 99 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is roughly in line with the Arkansas state average of 97. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by Grand Prairie Regional Water, a groundwater system providing water to approximately 15,204 people. The area has a clean violation record over the past 5 years — a positive indicator of consistent water quality management.
A score of 99/100 means public water-system records for Ethel, AR show relatively few concerns in the US Water Score model. This is an internal score, not an EPA safety rating, and it does not guarantee conditions at any specific tap.
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
Based on public water-system records, Ethel, Arkansas receives an internal US Water Score grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 99/100. This indicates relatively few system-level concerns in our model, but it is not an EPA safety rating and does not guarantee tap conditions inside individual homes.
ZIP code 72048 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 15,204 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 levels in Ethel, Arkansas are 1.0 ppb, which is at or below the health guideline of 1 ppb. This is a positive result, though periodic testing is still recommended.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Ethel, Arkansas 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 Ethel, Arkansas have zero violations in the last 5 years. This is a positive indicator of consistent regulatory compliance and water quality management.
Water in Ethel, Arkansas 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.