Lead in Beaufort, SC Drinking Water
Lead data for Beaufort, South Carolina · 46,239 residents · 6 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of Lead in Beaufort, South Carolina: the highest detected level is 620 ppb; the EPA limit is 15 ppb (action level). Lead carries a high health-risk designation.
Lead is regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act because of its potential health effects at elevated concentrations; for residents of Beaufort, South Carolina, the relevant fact is that it has shown up in recent EPA compliance samples - point-of-use filtration is one option residents research, alongside reviewing the utility's published treatment data.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
Lead in Beaufort Tap Water
Lead has been detected in Beaufort, South Carolina drinking water at a maximum level of 620 ppb — 41.33x the EPA action level.
This analysis covers 46,239 residents across 6 ZIP codes in Beaufort.
Beaufort's overall water quality grade is A (92/100).
Is Lead in Beaufort Water Safe?
If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.
Lead Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Lead Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29904 | 620 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 29905 | 620 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | Exceeds limit |
| 29901 | 1.2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 29902 | 1.2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 29903 | 1.2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 29906 | 1.2 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
Average lead level across Beaufort: 207.47 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 Beaufort 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.