Fair Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
17.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Exceeded |
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFPeA | 4.1 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 3.8 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFHxS | 3.7 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Below limit |
| PFHxA | 3.1 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in El Paso, Texas (79916) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 68 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is roughly in line with the Texas state average of 68. The area is served by 3 water systems providing water to approximately 45,961 people, using surface water and groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. PFAS testing detected 4 compounds, all currently below EPA limits.
A score of 68/100 indicates fair water quality in El Paso, 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 El Paso, Texas receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 68/100. 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 79916 is served by 3 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 45,961 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Yes — lead levels in El Paso, Texas are 17.0 ppb, which exceeds the EPA action level of 15 ppb. This is a serious concern. We strongly recommend using a certified lead-removal filter for all drinking and cooking water, and having your water independently tested.
4 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving El Paso, 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 El Paso, Texas have received 6 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 El Paso, 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.