Water & Air Quality in District of Columbia
Regional composite data for PFAS, lead, and PM2.5 in District of Columbia. Values are derived from EPA UCMR 5, EWG Tap Water Database, and AirNow annual averages. Check your specific ZIP code below for localized results.
PFAS
Lead
PM2.5
District of Columbia Context
Legacy lead service lines under aggressive replacement; PM2.5 driven by I-95 corridor and regional sources.
Check Your Specific ZIP Code in District of Columbia
State averages mask wide local variation. Your ZIP code may be significantly cleaner or more contaminated than the state composite — especially near industrial sites, military bases, or older housing stock.
Audit District of Columbia ZIP 20001 →Or go to the home page and enter any District of Columbia ZIP code.
What These Numbers Mean for District of Columbia Residents
PFAS in District of Columbia Drinking Water
District of Columbia's regional PFAS composite is 2.4 parts per trillion (ppt), which is at or below the EPA's 2024 enforceable limit of 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS. That said, the EPA limit reflects what's technically achievable — the agency's health goal is zero, and any PFAS exposure carries some risk given their persistence in the body.
Lead in District of Columbia Tap Water
Lead contamination in District of Columbia averages 6.1 ppb at the 90th percentile. This is at or above concerning levels. Homes built before 1986 face the highest risk from lead service lines and solder. An NSF 53-certified under-sink filter or reverse osmosis system removes lead at the tap.
PM2.5 Air Quality in District of Columbia
District of Columbia's annual average PM2.5 is 8.7 µg/m³. This meets the EPA annual standard (9 µg/m³) but exceeds the stricter WHO guideline of 5 µg/m³. A HEPA air purifier in sleeping areas is recommended, particularly for children and people with respiratory conditions.
Filtration Recommendations for District of Columbia
- Lead concern: Any NSF 53-certified carbon block filter removes lead at the tap. An RO system covers both PFAS and lead. Shop Berkey →
District of Columbia Water & Air Resources
Want to go deeper? Read our evidence-based articles on PFAS health effects, water filter comparisons, and PM2.5 air quality. Or audit your specific ZIP code for localized results.