Water Quality in Birmingham, AL

Birmingham's water has PFAS above EPA limits (12 ppt). An activated carbon filter can reduce PFAS levels. Read below for a full breakdown.

Birmingham Water Works · Source: Inland Lake + Purdy Creek · Serves 200,733 residents

50
Hardness (PPM)
75
TDS (PPM)
1.1
Chlorine (mg/L)
12
PFAS (ppt)
3
Lead (ppb)
50 PPM 0 400 Slightly Hard
CONTAMINANT LEVELS Hardness 50 PPM TDS 75 PPM PFAS 12 ppt Lead 3 ppb Chlorine 1.1 mg/L Nitrate 1 mg/L

Hardness Scale: Where Birmingham Falls

Soft 060120180250400+
Elevated PFAS (military base proximity)Lead in older areas

What Birmingham's Water Means for Your Home

Birmingham's water is slightly hard at 50 PPM. At this level, hard water is not a significant concern for most households. Scale buildup is minimal, and a water softener would provide little measurable benefit. If you are considering water treatment in Birmingham, focus on contaminant filtration rather than softening.

PFAS contamination is a significant concern in Birmingham. At 12 parts per trillion, levels exceed the EPA's 2024 maximum contaminant level of 4 ppt. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that do not break down in the environment or the human body, which is why they are called "forever chemicals." Long-term exposure has been associated with increased cancer risk, thyroid disruption, and immune system effects. A whole-house activated carbon filter or point-of-use reverse osmosis system can reduce PFAS to safe levels. Look for NSF P473 certification when comparing products.

ContaminantDetectedHealth GuidelineLegal LimitStatus
Hardness (as CaCO₃)50 PPM< 60 PPMNo federal limit✓ OK
Total Dissolved Solids75 PPM< 300 PPM500 PPM✓ OK
PFAS (total)12 ppt4 ppt (EPA)4 ppt (2024)⚠ Above limit
Lead3 ppb0 ppb (no safe level)15 ppb (action level)✓ Low
Chlorine / Chloramine1.1 mg/LTaste threshold ~1.04.0 mg/L✓ Normal
Nitrate1 mg/L5 mg/L10 mg/L✓ OK

Recommendations for Birmingham Homes

🔬 Activated Carbon Filter for PFAS
PFAS detected at 12 ppt, above the EPA maximum contaminant level of 4 ppt. PFAS are linked to cancer, thyroid disease, and immune system effects with long-term exposure. A whole-house granular activated carbon (GAC) filter or a point-of-use reverse osmosis system can reduce PFAS. Look for NSF P473 certification, which specifically tests for PFAS removal.
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About Birmingham's Water Supply

Water Utility: Birmingham Water Works

Water Source: Inland Lake + Purdy Creek

Population Served: 200,733

Hardness: 50 PPM (undefined grains per gallon)

Water quality can vary by neighborhood and season. The values above represent typical averages reported by Birmingham Water Works. To get exact numbers for your address, request a copy of the most recent Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your utility, or have your water independently tested.

Compare Birmingham to Other Alabama Cities

Huntsville

130 PPM · Hard

Montgomery

41 PPM · Slightly Hard

Mobile

69 PPM · Moderately Hard

Tuscaloosa

72 PPM · Moderately Hard

Hoover

93 PPM · Moderately Hard

Dothan

61 PPM · Moderately Hard

Frequently Asked Questions About Birmingham Water

Is Birmingham tap water safe to drink?
Birmingham's water meets EPA legal standards for drinking water safety. However, legal limits and health-optimal levels are different things. PFAS levels exceed the 2024 EPA health standard, which is a concern for long-term exposure. Review the contaminant table above for specific numbers and how they compare to both legal limits and health guidelines.
Do I need a water softener in Birmingham?
Probably not. At 50 PPM, Birmingham's water is on the softer end. Most homes will not experience noticeable scale buildup. That said, if you have high-end fixtures, a glass shower enclosure, or a tankless water heater, even mild hardness can leave mineral deposits over time. A salt-free conditioner is a low-cost insurance policy in that case.
What water filter is best for Birmingham?
The best filter depends on which contaminants you want to address. For PFAS, look for a filter with NSF P473 certification. Granular activated carbon (GAC) and reverse osmosis systems are both effective. Standard carbon pitcher filters may not remove PFAS adequately. See our softener vs. filter guide to understand the difference between these categories.
Where does Birmingham's water come from?
Birmingham's drinking water is sourced from Inland Lake + Purdy Creek and treated by Birmingham Water Works.
What is the hardness of Birmingham water in grains per gallon?
Birmingham's water hardness is undefined grains per gallon (GPG), which equals 50 parts per million (PPM). This is classified as slightly hard. To convert: 1 GPG = 17.1 PPM.
Does Birmingham water damage tankless water heaters?
At undefined GPG, Birmingham's water is unlikely to cause significant issues for tankless water heaters. However, if you notice reduced flow or efficiency over time, scale buildup could be a factor. Annual flushing with vinegar is good maintenance regardless of hardness.
Is Birmingham water safe for babies and infants?
Birmingham's water meets all EPA safety standards and is generally considered safe for preparing infant formula. The hardness minerals (calcium and magnesium) are not harmful. If your home has older plumbing, running cold water for 30 seconds before use is a good precaution to flush any lead from pipes.

Data sources. Water quality data compiled from EPA SDWIS, EWG Tap Water Database, USGS water hardness studies, and the Birmingham Water Works Consumer Confidence Report. Hardness and contaminant levels represent typical average values and may vary by neighborhood and season. Last updated: 2026-02-12.