How much lead is in Apex water?

The maximum detected level of lead in Apex water is 5 ppb. The EPA limit is 15 ppb (action level). See the ZIP code table above for area-specific levels.

Detected Lead

Lead in Apex, NC Drinking Water

Q: Is lead in Apex water safe?

Lead was detected in Apex water at 5 ppb, below the EPA limit of 15 ppb (action level). Check ZIP-level data on this page for your specific area.

Lead data for Apex, North Carolina · 106,013 residents · 3 ZIP codes

Lead exposure in drinking water is tracked by EPA across the country; households in Apex, North Carolina are among those with confirmed detections in the public water record.

5 ppb

Max Level Detected

5 ppb

Average Level

15 ppb (action level)

EPA action level

High

Health Risk

Reverse Osmosis or NSF 53 Carbon Block

Best Filter Method

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14

Lead in Apex Tap Water

Lead has been detected in Apex, North Carolina drinking water at a maximum level of 5 ppb — below the EPA action level of 15 ppb (action level).

This analysis covers 106,013 residents across 3 ZIP codes in Apex.

Apex's overall water quality grade is A (94/100).

Is Lead in Apex Water Safe?

Lead was detected in Apex water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA action level may not be protective enough — the CDC states there is no safe level of lead for children.

If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter can reduce lead levels further.

Lead Levels by ZIP Code

ZIP Code	Lead Level	EPA Limit	Status
27502	5 ppb	15 ppb (action level)	OK
27523	5 ppb	15 ppb (action level)	OK
27539	5 ppb	15 ppb (action level)	OK

Average lead level across Apex: 5 ppb

Health Effects of Lead

Brain development delays and reduced IQ in children
Behavioral problems and learning disabilities
High blood pressure and kidney damage in adults
Increased risk of premature birth in pregnant women

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR/LCRI).

How Lead Gets Into Drinking Water

Corrosion of lead service lines (pipes connecting water main to home)
Lead solder in copper plumbing joints (pre-1986 homes)
Brass fixtures and faucets manufactured before 2014
Stagnant water that sits in lead-containing pipes overnight

What to Do About Lead in Apex Water

Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter at kitchen sink
Run cold water for 30 seconds before using for drinking or cooking
Use cold water only for cooking and preparing formula
Consider whole-home reverse osmosis if lead service line is present

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for lead removal.

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