US Water Score: A
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
10.75
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Albuquerque, New Mexico (87199) receives an overall grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 86 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 10 points below the New Mexico state average of 96. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by Kohala Ranch Water Co., a groundwater system providing water to approximately 850 people. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. The area has a clean violation record over the past 5 years — a positive indicator of consistent water quality management.
A score of 86/100 means public water-system records for Albuquerque, NM show relatively few concerns in the US Water Score model. This is an internal score, not an EPA safety rating, and it does not guarantee conditions at any specific tap.
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
Based on public water-system records, Albuquerque, New Mexico receives an internal US Water Score grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 86/100. This indicates relatively few system-level concerns in our model, but it is not an EPA safety rating and does not guarantee tap conditions inside individual homes.
ZIP code 87199 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 850 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.
Lead was reported at 10.75 ppb in public-system records for Albuquerque, New Mexico. This is below the currently applicable EPA action level of 15 ppb, but may be above more protective health guidance; EPA's future LCRI action level is 10 ppb. Household plumbing can materially change tap-level exposure, so consider certified filtration and individual tap testing, especially where children are present.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Albuquerque, New Mexico 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 Albuquerque, New Mexico have zero violations in the last 5 years. This is a positive indicator of consistent regulatory compliance and water quality management.
Based on detected contaminants (lead), residents in Albuquerque, New Mexico should consider: NSF/ANSI 53 certified filter — specifically rated for lead reduction. Pitcher filters (like Brita Longlast or PUR) and under-sink systems both work. Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.