Poor Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
3.4
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Copper |
2000.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb | Exceeded |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBA | 6.5 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 3.2 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Austin, Texas (78738) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 50 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 10 water systems providing water to approximately 82,041 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead, Copper that warrant attention. PFAS testing detected 2 compounds, all currently below EPA limits. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 60 violations, including 13 health-based violations.
A score of 50/100 signals poor water quality in Austin, 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.
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 Austin, Texas receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 50/100. 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 78738 is served by 10 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 82,041 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead was detected at 3.4 ppb in Austin, 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.
2 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Austin, Texas, but all are currently below EPA limits. While levels are within regulatory standards, some health organizations recommend minimizing any PFAS exposure. Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filters can reduce PFAS levels.
Water systems serving Austin, Texas have received 60 violations in the last 5 years, including 13 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 (lead, PFAS, copper), residents in Austin, 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.