Radium in Pacoima, CA Drinking Water
Radium data for Pacoima, California · 98,820 residents · 3 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of Radium in Pacoima, California: the highest detected level is 8 pCi/L; the EPA limit is 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228). Radium carries a high health-risk designation.
Radium is regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act because of its potential health effects at elevated concentrations; for residents of Pacoima, California, 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
Radium in Pacoima Tap Water
Radium has been detected in Pacoima, California drinking water at a maximum level of 8 pCi/L — relative to the EPA MCL of 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228).
This analysis covers 98,820 residents across 3 ZIP codes in Pacoima.
Pacoima's overall water quality grade is C (56/100).
Is Radium in Pacoima Water Safe?
Radium was detected in Pacoima water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA MCL may not be protective enough.
If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or ion exchange filter can reduce radium levels further.
Radium Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Radium Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 91331 | 8 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Not comparable |
Average radium level across Pacoima: 8 pCi/L
Health Effects of Radium
- Increased risk of bone cancer (radium accumulates in bones)
- The body treats radium like calcium, storing it in bones
- Lifetime cancer risk of ~1 in 10,000 at 5 pCi/L
- No safe threshold for radioactive contamination
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Radionuclides Rule.
How Radium Gets Into Drinking Water
- Natural radioactive decay in underground rock formations
- Groundwater sources (especially deep wells)
- Mining and industrial waste
- Higher in regions with specific geology (Midwest, parts of South)
What to Do About Radium in Pacoima Water
- Reverse osmosis (NSF 58 certified) removes 90%+ of radium
- Ion exchange (water softeners) can reduce radium
- Point-of-use RO at kitchen tap is most cost-effective
- GAC filters alone are NOT effective for radium
Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for radium removal.