If you rely on a public water system in Van Nuys, California, Nitrate is a contaminant your utility has been required to test for — and EPA records show it has been detected at measurable levels, making it worth understanding as part of your tap water's detection record.

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-06-04

Nitrate in Van Nuys Tap Water

Van Nuys, California has 182 EPA violations related to nitrate in drinking water.

This analysis covers 170,079 residents across 13 ZIP codes in Van Nuys.

Van Nuys's overall water quality grade is D (54/100).

Is Nitrate in Van Nuys 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.

EPA Violations for Nitrate in Van Nuys

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 Van Nuys 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
• Nitrate in California
• California Water Quality
• Van Nuys Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code