Fair Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
1.4
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFPeA | 9.8 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFBA | 9.3 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFOS | 9.2 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFBA | 9.2 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 8.6 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 8.0 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 7.6 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFOA | 4.7 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Brownsville, Texas (78521) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 55 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 14 points below the Texas state average of 68. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 3 water systems providing water to approximately 211,415 people, using surface water sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. Notably, 4 PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. The area has 13 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 55/100 indicates fair water quality in Brownsville, TX. 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.
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 Brownsville, Texas receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 55/100. 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 78521 is served by 3 water systems using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 211,415 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 detected at 1.4 ppb in Brownsville, Texas. 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 — 15 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Brownsville, Texas, and 4 exceed 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 Brownsville, Texas have received 13 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 Brownsville, 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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