Fair Water Quality
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 46.3 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFHxS | 18.5 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFBA | 11.5 ppt | No standard | 500 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFHxA | 8.1 ppt | No standard | 400 ppt | Unregulated |
| PFPeA | 6.0 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
| PFHpA | 3.9 ppt | No standard | — | Unregulated |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Barrow, Alaska (99723) receives an overall grade of C (Fair) with a score of 55 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is roughly in line with the Alaska state average of 54. Compared to the national average (75), this area scores significantly lower. The area is served by 2 water systems providing water to approximately 5,538 people, using surface water sources. Notably, 2 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 27 violations, including 1 health-based violations.
A score of 55/100 indicates fair water quality in Barrow, AK. 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.
Common Questions
Tap water in Barrow, Alaska receives a grade of C (Fair) with a score of 55/100. 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 99723 is served by 2 water systems using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 5,538 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 99723. 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 — 6 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Barrow, Alaska, and 2 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 Barrow, Alaska have received 27 violations in the last 5 years, including 1 health-based violation. 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 Barrow, Alaska 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.