What Charlotte Residents Should Know
Charlotte draws its drinking water primarily from Mountain Island Lake and Lake Norman, both part of the Catawba River basin. These surface water sources provide water to over 1 million residents in Charlotte and surrounding Mecklenburg County through three water treatment plants: Franklin, Vest, and Lee S. Dukes.
While Charlotte Water maintains compliance with federal and state standards, the city faces several water quality challenges. Seasonal algal blooms in the lakes can cause taste and odor issues, particularly during summer months. The rapid growth of the Charlotte metropolitan area has put pressure on both water resources and infrastructure, requiring ongoing updates and expansions to the system.
Additionally, like many cities with older neighborhoods, Charlotte has areas with lead service lines and lead plumbing components in homes built before 1986. Recent testing has found that while most areas show lead levels below EPA limits, some older neighborhoods have higher concentrations. Charlotte Water has been working to identify and replace lead service lines through its infrastructure improvement program.
Key Contaminants Found
These substances have been detected in Charlotte's water supply at levels that may be concerning for some residents.
Lead
Below Limit, But PresentSource: Lead service lines, lead solder in plumbing, and older fixtures in pre-1986 buildings
Health Effects: Developmental delays in children, learning disabilities, reduced IQ, kidney problems, high blood pressure
Charlotte Levels: Average 5.8 ppb (90th percentile), with approximately 6% of samples exceeding the EPA action level
EPA Limit: Action level 15 ppb, but no safe level exists
Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
Below Limit, But PresentSource: Byproducts formed when chlorine used to disinfect water reacts with organic matter
Health Effects: Potential increased risk of cancer with long-term exposure, liver and kidney problems
Charlotte Levels: 30-48 ppb, varying by location and season, higher during summer months
EPA Limit: 80 ppb
Geosmin & MIB (Algal Compounds)
Taste/Odor OnlySource: Compounds produced by blue-green algae during summer blooms in Lake Norman and Mountain Island Lake
Health Effects: No health concerns, but causes earthy/musty taste and odor in water
Charlotte Levels: Seasonally variable, typically higher in summer months
EPA Limit: Not regulated (aesthetic concern only)
Hard Water Minerals
Not a Health ConcernSource: Natural mineral content in the Catawba River basin
Health Effects: No direct health concerns, but can cause dry skin, hair issues, and appliance/plumbing damage
Charlotte Levels: 5.2 grains per gallon (89 mg/L), considered "moderately hard"
EPA Limit: Not regulated (aesthetic concern only)
Neighborhood Variations
Water quality can vary across Charlotte's diverse neighborhoods, primarily due to differences in infrastructure age, pipe materials, and distance from treatment plants.
Water Quality by Area
| Neighborhood/Area | Risk Level | Treatment Plant | Buildings Pre-1986 | Notable Concerns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plaza Midwood/NoDa | High | Franklin WTP | 78% | Lead, Aging Infrastructure |
| Dilworth/South End | High | Franklin WTP | 72% | Lead, TTHMs |
| West Charlotte | Medium | Vest WTP | 65% | Lead, TTHMs |
| Uptown/Center City | Medium | Franklin WTP | 45% | TTHMs, Taste/Odor Seasonally |
| University Area | Low | Lee S. Dukes WTP | 28% | Seasonal Taste/Odor |
| Ballantyne/South Charlotte | Low | Franklin WTP | 15% | Minimal Concerns |
Data based on Charlotte Water sampling and building age estimates.
Recommended Action Steps
Based on Charlotte's water quality data, we recommend these actions to protect yourself and your family.
Test Your Water If in an Older Home
If you live in a pre-1986 home, especially in Plaza Midwood, NoDa, Dilworth, or South End, consider testing your water for lead and other contaminants. Charlotte Water offers lead testing services for residents.
Lead Testing ResourcesRun Cold Water Before Use
In older buildings, run cold water for 30-60 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking, especially first thing in the morning or after being away from home for several hours. This helps flush out any lead that may have leached into water sitting in pipes.
Use a Carbon Filter for Taste and Odor
For seasonal taste and odor issues caused by algal compounds, a simple activated carbon filter (pitcher or faucet-mounted) can be very effective. These filters also help reduce chlorine taste and some disinfection byproducts like TTHMs.
Check Your Service Line Material
Charlotte Water is documenting lead service lines throughout the city. Use their online tool to determine if your property may have a lead service line, and learn about replacement programs available through Charlotte Water.
Lead Service Line InformationStay Informed During Summer Months
Charlotte water quality can vary seasonally, with algal taste and odor issues and higher TTHM levels more common in warm summer months. Consider additional filtration during these seasonal changes if you notice taste or odor differences.
Consider Water Efficiency
Charlotte's rapid growth has put pressure on water resources. Using water efficiently not only helps conserve this valuable resource but can also reduce the formation of disinfection byproducts in the distribution system.
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