Arsenic in West Des Moines, IA Drinking Water
Arsenic data for West Des Moines, Iowa · 69,831 residents · 2 ZIP codes
Not every city shows Arsenic in its water data; in West Des Moines, Iowa, federal sampling has confirmed its presence at detectable levels in at least one recent reporting cycle.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-04-05
Arsenic in West Des Moines Tap Water
Arsenic has been detected in West Des Moines, Iowa drinking water at a maximum level of 100 ppb — 10x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 69,831 residents across 2 ZIP codes in West Des Moines.
West Des Moines's overall water quality grade is C (63/100).
Is Arsenic in West Des Moines 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.
Arsenic Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Arsenic Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50265 | 100 ppb | 10 ppb | Exceeds limit |
| 50266 | 100 ppb | 10 ppb | Exceeds limit |
Average arsenic level across West Des Moines: 100 ppb
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 West Des Moines 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.