Poor Water Quality
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFBA | 43.1 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFHxS | 32.4 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFOS | 30.0 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFHxA | 23.5 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 22.9 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHpA | 12.4 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFBS | 8.2 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
| PFOA | 7.7 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Abilene, Texas (79601) receives an overall grade of D (Poor) with a score of 49 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 20 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 127,264 people, using surface water sources. Notably, 3 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 17 violations, including 4 health-based violations.
A score of 49/100 signals poor water quality in Abilene, 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.
Common Questions
Tap water in Abilene, Texas receives a grade of D (Poor) with a score of 49/100. 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 79601 is served by 3 water systems using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 127,264 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.
No lead data is currently available for ZIP code 79601. 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.
Yes — 9 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Abilene, Texas, and 3 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 Abilene, Texas have received 17 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), residents in Abilene, 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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