Across the water systems that serve Apple Valley, California, Nitrate has appeared in EPA compliance samples — standard municipal treatment targets this contaminant, though detections in the compliance record indicate it has reached household taps at measurable levels.

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-04-05

Nitrate in Apple Valley Tap Water

Nitrate has been detected in Apple Valley, California drinking water at a maximum level of 45 ppb — below the EPA MCL of 10 mg/L (as nitrogen).

This analysis covers 83,068 residents across 2 ZIP codes in Apple Valley.

Apple Valley's overall water quality grade is B (81/100).

Is Nitrate in Apple Valley Water Safe?

If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or ion exchange filter certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.

Nitrate Levels by ZIP Code

Average nitrate level across Apple Valley: 45 ppb

Health Effects of Nitrate

• Methemoglobinemia ("blue baby syndrome") in infants under 6 months
• Increased risk of colorectal and bladder cancer (long-term)
• Thyroid disease from chronic exposure
• Possible reproductive effects

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.

How Nitrate Gets Into Drinking Water

• Agricultural fertilizer runoff
• Animal feedlot operations and manure
• Septic system leachate
• Urban stormwater and wastewater discharge

What to Do About Nitrate in Apple Valley Water

1. Reverse osmosis is the most effective method for nitrate removal
2. Ion exchange systems designed for nitrate can also work
3. Standard carbon filters do NOT remove nitrate
4. Boiling water increases nitrate concentration — never boil for nitrate

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

Related

• Nitrate — National Overview
• California Water Quality
• Apple Valley Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code