Is Arecibo, PR Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Copper, Strontium and 1 more were detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
38.5/100
waterverge.com Arecibo, PR — Water Quality Report
Arecibo's drinking water received a grade of F (38.5 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 10 water systems serve approximately 118,221 residents using surface water.
Lead levels were measured at 6.0 ppb (90th percentile), which is within EPA limits but above recommended levels. UCMR 5 testing detected 2 PFAS compounds, with levels exceeding EPA maximum contaminant levels in the water supply.
The system has 1449 violations on record, including 241 health-based violations. 70 remain unresolved.
What to know about Arecibo's water
Arecibo ranks #90 out of 101 cities in Puerto Rico for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
The city draws from surface water sources, which are more susceptible to seasonal runoff and agricultural contamination, requiring extensive multi-barrier treatment including coagulation, filtration, and disinfection.
Of particular concern: PFAS "forever chemical" levels exceed the 2024 EPA maximum contaminant levels. These synthetic compounds don't break down naturally and require specialized filtration such as reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon.
Haloacetic acid (HAA5) levels were elevated at 30.6 µg/L in UCMR 4 testing, though below the 60 µg/L EPA limit. Activated carbon filtration can help reduce these disinfection byproducts.
Hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected at 1.57 µg/L in UCMR 3 testing. While below California's 10 µg/L limit and with no federal MCL set, residents sensitive to this contaminant may consider reverse osmosis filtration.
While lead levels are within EPA limits, they are above the recommended 5 ppb threshold that health organizations consider ideal. A point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
The system has seen 18 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Arecibo, PR water safe to drink?
Arecibo's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (38.5/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 10 water systems serve approximately 118,221 residents using surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs).
Recent water quality updates for Arecibo
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
PFAS levels exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. Reverse osmosis or activated carbon filtration recommended.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Arecibo's water quality assessment. Grade: F (38.5/100).
1 health-based. Contaminants: Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS.
Contaminants: Nitrate.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Arecibo's water supply.
Within EPA limits but above the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended level of 1 ppb. An NSF 53-certified filter provides additional protection.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
PFAS "forever chemicals" exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. Reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon filtration strongly recommended.
PFAS "forever chemicals" detected
UCMR 5 testing found 2 PFAS compounds in Arecibo's water supply. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist indefinitely in the environment and the human body.
Violation history
Arecibo's water system has 1,449 total violations on record, including 241 health-based violations. 70 remain unresolved. 18 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Where does Arecibo's water come from?
Arecibo's drinking water comes from surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs), supplied by 10 water systems serving approximately 118,221 people. Surface water sources are more susceptible to contamination from runoff, industrial discharge, and algal blooms, requiring extensive treatment. Nearby water bodies include Rio Camuy Nr Bayaney (river), Rio Limon (river), Lago Dos Bocas (lake), Rio Grande De Arecibo Nr San Pedro (river), Rio Tanama (river).
What Arecibo residents can do
Recommended: Reverse osmosis system. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Arecibo's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Forever chemicals overview
National PFAS report →Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Arecibo's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 6.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 1.36 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 4:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 6:2 FTS 6:2 FTSPFAS A fluorotelomer sulfonate commonly found at sites contaminated with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting. Health EffectsPotential liver toxicity and endocrine disruption. Less studied but identified as a contaminant of concern. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), airports, military bases, and industrial facilities. | 0.009 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| 8:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 9Cl-PF3ONS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| ADONA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| HFPO-DA HFPO-DA (GenX)PFAS A replacement for PFOA in manufacturing, marketed as safer but still a persistent "forever chemical." Also known as GenX. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, reproductive toxicity, immune system effects, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit10 ppt MCL Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing (used as PFOA replacement), industrial wastewater discharge. | ND | 0.01 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| lithium LithiumInorganic A naturally occurring alkali metal found in groundwater. Monitored under UCMR 5 to assess occurrence in drinking water. Health EffectsKidney effects at high doses. Low-level exposure effects under study; some research suggests neurological effects. EPA LimitNo MCL (monitoring only under UCMR 5) Common SourcesNatural mineral deposits, geothermal water, and industrial discharge. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NEtFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NFDHA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NMeFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBA PFBAPFAS One of the shortest-chain PFAS compounds. Very mobile in water and difficult to remove with standard filtration. Health EffectsThyroid effects, potential developmental toxicity. Shorter half-life in body than long-chain PFAS. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and firefighting foam. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBS PFBSPFAS A short-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS. While it clears the body faster than long-chain PFAS, it still persists in the environment. Health EffectsThyroid effects, reproductive and developmental toxicity, kidney effects. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam, and as a replacement chemical in manufacturing. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDoA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFEESA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpA PFHpAPFAS A medium-chain PFAS compound found in various environmental samples. Less studied than PFOA/PFOS but still considered a contaminant of concern. Health EffectsLiver effects, potential developmental toxicity, and endocrine disruption. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxA PFHxAPFAS A short-chain PFAS replacement chemical widely used after manufacturers phased out longer-chain PFAS. Very commonly detected in water. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, potential thyroid disruption. Considered less toxic than long-chain PFAS but still persistent. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial processes, firefighting foam (AFFF), food packaging, and textile treatment. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxS PFHxSPFAS A medium-chain PFAS found in firefighting foam and consumer products. It has a long half-life in the human body, similar to long-chain PFAS. Health EffectsImmune system effects, thyroid disruption, and potential reproductive and developmental harm. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), waterproof textiles, food packaging, and industrial discharge. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMBA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMPA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFNA PFNAPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound used in manufacturing fluoropolymers. It bioaccumulates in the body and is very persistent in the environment. Health EffectsDevelopmental effects, liver toxicity, immune suppression, and potential cancer risk. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing, industrial emissions, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOA PFOAPFAS A long-chain PFAS ("forever chemical") once widely used in nonstick coatings and firefighting foam. It persists in the body and environment for years. Health EffectsLinked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, and reproductive issues. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF), nonstick cookware manufacturing, and contaminated groundwater. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOS PFOSPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound historically used in stain-resistant coatings and firefighting foam. One of the most studied and persistent PFAS chemicals. Health EffectsLiver damage, immune system suppression, thyroid disruption, increased cholesterol, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), industrial sites, stain-resistant fabric treatments, and contaminated groundwater. | 0.004 | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Over MCL |
| PFPeA PFPeAPFAS A short-chain PFAS compound commonly detected in drinking water. One of the most frequently found PFAS in UCMR 5 monitoring. Health EffectsLess studied than PFOA/PFOS. Potential liver and thyroid effects. Research is ongoing. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam degradation, and consumer products. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFPeS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTrDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFUnA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.360 mg/L (1992)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Arecibo compares by contaminant
Explore where Arecibo ranks among all Puerto Rico cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Arecibo's water comes from
Arecibo's drinking water comes primarily from surface water sources such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs.
Surface water systems require multi-stage treatment including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection to meet EPA Safe Drinking Water Act standards.
These sources can be impacted by seasonal changes, stormwater runoff, upstream agriculture, and industrial discharge.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 118,221 people through 10 water systems.
Water bodies near Arecibo
Arecibo is located near 5 notable water bodies. As a surface water system, these water bodies may directly influence the city's drinking water supply.
Water systems serving Arecibo
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| ARECIBO URBANO | PR0002652 | 61,119 | SW |
| SANTANA | PR0002832 | 19,574 | SW |
| SABANA HOYOS | PR0002822 | 15,876 | SW |
| GARROCHALES | PR0002782 | 7,439 | GW |
| MIRAFLORES | PR0002812 | 5,596 | SW |
| BAJADERO | PR0003222 | 3,420 | GW |
| ESPERANZA | PR0002792 | 2,232 | SW |
| SAN RAFAEL | PR0003892 | 1,412 | GW |
| CAMPAMENTO PENAL SABANA HOYOS | PR0207002 | 800 | GW |
| RIO ARRIBA | PR0002842 | 753 | SW |
How Arecibo compares
Full Puerto Rico rankings →Arecibo's score of 38.5/100 is on par with the average of 38/100 among major Puerto Rico cities. It outscores 4 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Puerto Rico rankings →Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Arecibo's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Arecibo Municipio
Frequently asked questions
Is Arecibo, PR tap water safe to drink?
Arecibo's water quality earned a grade of F (38.5/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #90 out of 101 cities tested in Puerto Rico.
What contaminants are in Arecibo's water?
Lead was measured at 6.0 ppb (90th percentile). 2 PFAS compounds were detected. 1449 violations are on record.
How is Arecibo's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Arecibo?
While lead levels are within EPA limits, a filter adds extra protection. PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter is recommended.
Where does Arecibo's water come from?
Arecibo's water is sourced from Surface water. The city has 10 water systems serving approximately 118,221 residents.
What health violations has Arecibo's water system had?
Arecibo has 241 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in February 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 70 violations remain unresolved.
How does Arecibo's water compare to other cities?
Arecibo ranks #90 out of 101 cities in Puerto Rico (better than 11% of state cities) and #15322 out of 15744 cities nationally (3th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.