Good Water Quality
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Brownsville, Texas (78523) receives an overall grade of B (Good) with a score of 80 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 12 points above the Texas state average of 68. The area is served by Southmost Regional Water Authority, a groundwater system providing water to approximately 0 people. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 5 violations, including 2 health-based violations.
A score of 80/100 means the water in Brownsville, TX is generally good and meets EPA standards, with only minor areas of concern. There may be low levels of detectable contaminants or a small number of non-critical violations. Most residents can feel comfortable with their tap water quality, though basic filtration can provide an extra layer of protection.
Common Questions
Based on EPA data, tap water in Brownsville, Texas receives a grade of B (Good) with a score of 80/100. This indicates the water meets federal standards and has relatively few concerns. However, individual homes may still have localized issues such as lead from old plumbing.
ZIP code 78523 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 0 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 78523. 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 Brownsville, Texas 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 Brownsville, Texas have received 5 violations in the last 5 years, including 2 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.
Water in Brownsville, Texas 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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