Chromium-6 in Cortez, FL Drinking Water
Chromium-6 data for Cortez, Florida · 347,800 residents · 1 ZIP code
Routine testing in Cortez, Florida turned up Chromium-6 — samples from the public supply came back positive, placing this contaminant on the list of substances residents here have a concrete reason to look into.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Chromium-6 in Cortez Tap Water
Chromium-6 has been detected in Cortez, Florida drinking water at a maximum level of 390 ppb — 3.9x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 347,800 residents across 1 ZIP code in Cortez.
Cortez's overall water quality grade is D (50/100).
Is Chromium-6 in Cortez Water Safe?
If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or strong-base anion exchange filter certified under NSF 58 and testing your water independently.
Chromium-6 Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Chromium-6 Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34215 | 390 ppb | 100 ppb (total chromium MCL) | Exceeds limit |
Average chromium-6 level across Cortez: 390 ppb
Health Effects of Chromium-6
- Stomach and intestinal cancer (likely carcinogen via ingestion)
- Known carcinogen when inhaled
- Liver and kidney damage
- Reproductive and developmental harm
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.
How Chromium-6 Gets Into Drinking Water
- Industrial discharge from steel and pulp mills
- Natural erosion of chromium deposits
- Coal ash disposal sites
- Cooling tower discharge
What to Do About Chromium-6 in Cortez Water
- Reverse osmosis systems are most effective
- Strong-base anion exchange can reduce chromium-6
- Standard carbon filters are NOT effective for chromium-6
- Look for NSF 58 certification
Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for chromium-6 removal.