Chromium-6 in Merced, CA Drinking Water
Chromium-6 data for Merced, California · 109,664 residents · 5 ZIP codes
For residents of Merced, California, Chromium-6 has appeared in public water supply sampling data.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-04-05
Chromium-6 in Merced Tap Water
Chromium-6 has been detected in Merced, California drinking water at a maximum level of 230 ppb — 2.3x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 109,664 residents across 5 ZIP codes in Merced.
Merced's overall water quality grade is B (81/100).
Is Chromium-6 in Merced 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 95340 | 230 ppb | 100 ppb (total chromium MCL) | Exceeds limit |
| 95341 | 230 ppb | 100 ppb (total chromium MCL) | Exceeds limit |
| 95343 | 230 ppb | 100 ppb (total chromium MCL) | Exceeds limit |
| 95344 | 230 ppb | 100 ppb (total chromium MCL) | Exceeds limit |
| 95348 | 230 ppb | 100 ppb (total chromium MCL) | Exceeds limit |
Average chromium-6 level across Merced: 230 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 Merced 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.