US Water Score: D
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
0.776
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
| Copper |
1530.0
|
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFPeA | 34.5 ppt | No standard | — | No federal MCL shown |
| PFBA | 14.1 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | No federal MCL shown |
| 6:2 FTS | 5.8 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 Hitchcock, Texas (77563) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 54 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 26 points below the Texas state average of 80. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 3 water systems providing water to approximately 8,379 people, using groundwater and surface water sources. PFAS testing detected 5 compounds, all below the EPA final MCL values used for comparison. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 11 violations, including 4 health-based violations.
A score of 54/100 flags significant system-level concerns in the US Water Score model for Hitchcock, TX. 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.
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
Tap water in Hitchcock, Texas receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 54/100. 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 77563 is served by 3 water systems using groundwater, surface water sources, providing water to approximately 8,379 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead levels in Hitchcock, Texas are 0.776 ppb, which is at or below the health guideline of 1 ppb. This is a positive result, though periodic testing is still recommended.
5 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Hitchcock, Texas, with reported values below the EPA final MCL values used by this site. This comparison is informational: federal compliance timelines and the status of some PFAS standards are still evolving. Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filters can reduce some PFAS when appropriately certified and maintained.
Water systems serving Hitchcock, Texas have received 11 violations in the last 5 years, including 4 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 (PFAS, copper), residents in Hitchcock, Texas 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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