US Water Score: D
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
6.1
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Winterhaven, California (92283) receives an overall grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 53 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 40 points below the California state average of 92. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 3 water systems providing water to approximately 5,660 people, using groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 45 violations, including 4 health-based violations.
A score of 53/100 flags significant system-level concerns in the US Water Score model for Winterhaven, CA. These may include violations, contaminant levels near or above regulatory limits, or PFAS detections. Review the detailed records, your utility's Consumer Confidence Report, and qualified local guidance.
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 Winterhaven, California receives a grade of D (Elevated record-based concern) with a score of 53/100. 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 92283 is served by 3 water systems using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 5,660 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 6.1 ppb in public-system records for Winterhaven, California. 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 Winterhaven, California 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 Winterhaven, California have received 45 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 (lead), residents in Winterhaven, California 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.
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