Arsenic in Salem, NH Drinking Water
Arsenic data for Salem, New Hampshire · 21,943 residents · 1 ZIP code
People in Salem, New Hampshire who get water from the public supply are among residents whose systems have returned Arsenic detections in EPA compliance testing.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Arsenic in Salem Tap Water
Salem, New Hampshire has 1 EPA violation related to arsenic in drinking water.
This analysis covers 21,943 residents across 1 ZIP code in Salem.
Salem's overall water quality grade is C (69/100).
Is Arsenic in Salem Water Safe?
If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis filter certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.
EPA Violations for Arsenic in Salem
| Date | Violation Type | Status | ZIP Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-04-01 | Arsenic (Known) | Known | 03079 |
Health Effects of Arsenic
- Increased risk of skin, bladder, lung, and kidney cancer
- Cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes
- Skin changes (darkening, thickening, lesions)
- Developmental effects in children exposed in utero
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Arsenic Rule (2006).
How Arsenic Gets Into Drinking Water
- Natural deposits in rock and soil (especially in western U.S.)
- Runoff from orchards and glass/electronics production
- Historical use of arsenic-based pesticides
- Well water in areas with arsenic-rich geology
What to Do About Arsenic in Salem Water
- Install a reverse osmosis (RO) system certified under NSF 58
- Adsorptive media filters (iron-based) can also reduce arsenic
- Have well water tested if on a private supply
- Boiling water does NOT remove arsenic — it concentrates it
Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for arsenic removal.