Poor Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
2.5
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBA | 14.8 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFBA | 13.6 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 11.7 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 11.2 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFBS | 10.4 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
| PFBA | 8.8 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 8.8 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 8.5 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Harlingen, Texas (78552) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 51 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 18 points below the Texas state average of 68. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 5 water systems providing water to approximately 118,377 people, using surface water sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. Notably, 2 PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 39 violations, including 1 health-based violations.
A score of 51/100 signals poor water quality in Harlingen, TX. Significant issues have been identified, which may include multiple violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS contamination. We recommend reviewing the detailed contaminant data below, considering a certified water filter, and checking your utility's Consumer Confidence Report for the latest information.
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 Harlingen, Texas receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 51/100. 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 78552 is served by 5 water systems using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 118,377 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 2.5 ppb in Harlingen, 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 — 16 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Harlingen, Texas, and 2 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 Harlingen, Texas have received 39 violations in the last 5 years, including 1 health-based violation. 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 Harlingen, 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.