Exceeds EPA Limit Lead EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

Lead in Santee, CA Drinking Water

Lead data for Santee, California · 94,459 residents · 2 ZIP codes

In Santee, California, Lead has been detected in the public water supply — a contaminant that health agencies track because of documented effects associated with prolonged exposure at elevated concentrations.

2 ppb
Max Level Detected
2 ppb
Average Level
15 ppb (action level)
EPA action level
8
EPA Violations
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 Santee Tap Water

Lead has been detected in Santee, California drinking water at a maximum level of 2 ppb — below the EPA action level of 15 ppb (action level).

This analysis covers 94,459 residents across 2 ZIP codes in Santee.

Santee's overall water quality grade is B (77/100).

Is Lead in Santee Water Safe?

Lead levels in parts of Santee exceed the EPA action level of 15 ppb (action level). The EPA requires water systems to take corrective action when this limit is exceeded.

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
92071 2 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK
92072 2 ppb 15 ppb (action level) OK

Average lead level across Santee: 2 ppb

EPA Violations for Lead in Santee

Date Violation Type Status ZIP Code
2024-04-01 Lead (Known) Known 92071
2024-04-01 Lead (Known) Known 92072
2024-01-01 Lead (Known) Known 92071
2024-01-01 Lead (Known) Known 92072
2023-11-01 Lead (Known) Known 92071
2023-11-01 Lead (Known) Known 92072
2023-10-01 Lead (Known) Known 92071
2023-10-01 Lead (Known) Known 92072

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 Santee Water

  1. Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter at kitchen sink
  2. Run cold water for 30 seconds before using for drinking or cooking
  3. Use cold water only for cooking and preparing formula
  4. 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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