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Detailed report on lead levels detected in Alameda's public drinking water supply. Last updated 2026-02-03.
0.0078 mg/L
Detected level is 52.3% of the EPA maximum contaminant level (0.015 mg/L)
Sample date: 2025-09-10
Overall Grade
Detected Level
0.0078 mg/L
EPA Maximum (MCL)
0.015 mg/L
Percentage of Limit
52.3%
The lead level in Alameda's water is between 50% and 100% of the EPA's maximum contaminant level. While technically within legal limits, this elevated level may pose long-term health concerns, especially for sensitive populations. EPA MCL: 0.015 mg/L (15 ppb). Lead has no safe level of exposure.
This data is based on water quality testing performed on 2025-09-10. Water quality can vary over time, and we recommend checking for the most recent data periodically.
Lead exposure is especially dangerous for children, causing developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral problems. In adults, it can cause high blood pressure, kidney damage, and reproductive issues.
Residents of Alameda should be aware that lead has been detected in the local water supply at 52.3% of the EPA limit. While within legal limits, this elevated level warrants attention, particularly for vulnerable individuals.
Certain groups face higher risks from lead exposure:
Lead typically enters drinking water through corroded pipes, fixtures, and solder. Homes built before 1986 are at highest risk. Service line replacements are ongoing nationwide.
Alameda draws its drinking water from a mix of surface water and groundwater sources. The city is served by 1 water system, including ALAMEDA WATER SYSTEM.
Lead contamination is typically not from the water source itself but from the distribution system. Older homes in Alameda with lead service lines, lead solder, or brass fixtures are at greatest risk. The age of the housing stock and infrastructure in your specific neighborhood matters most.
Lead levels in Alameda's water are approaching the EPA limit at 0.0078 mg/L (52.3% of the maximum allowed). We recommend filtering your drinking water, especially for households with children, pregnant women, or immunocompromised individuals.
The following filtration methods are proven effective at reducing or removing lead from drinking water:
Reverse Osmosis
NSF 53 Certified Carbon
Distillation
When choosing a filter, look for NSF/ANSI certification specific to lead removal. Not all filters are equally effective, and certification ensures the product has been independently tested.
See Filter Recommendations for AlamedaBased on the most recent testing data, lead was detected in Alameda, California water at a level of 0.0078 mg/L. This is 52.3% of the EPA maximum contaminant level of 0.015 mg/L. EPA MCL: 0.015 mg/L (15 ppb). Lead has no safe level of exposure.
Lead was detected in Alameda's water at elevated but legal levels (52.3% of the EPA limit). While not exceeding the legal maximum, long-term exposure at these levels may still pose health risks. Lead exposure is especially dangerous for children, causing developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral problems. In adults, it can cause high blood pressure, kidney damage, and reproductive issues. Filtration is recommended for an extra margin of safety.
The most effective methods for removing lead from your drinking water are: Reverse Osmosis, NSF 53 Certified Carbon, Distillation. When purchasing a filter, look for NSF/ANSI certification that specifically covers lead removal. Installation of a point-of-use filter (at your kitchen faucet or as an under-sink system) provides targeted protection for drinking and cooking water. For whole-house protection, a point-of-entry system can treat all water entering your home.
Yes, Alameda's water utility is required by the EPA to regularly test for lead as part of the Safe Drinking Water Act. The most recent testing detected lead at 0.0078 mg/L. These results are published in the city's annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), also known as a Water Quality Report. You can also request additional testing information directly from your local water utility or have your home's water independently tested for a more specific assessment.
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