Water Quality Alerts: What's in Your Tap Water?
Stay informed about common water contaminants affecting millions of Americans. Learn about health risks, EPA limits, and how to protect your family.
Common Water Contaminants
Click any contaminant to learn more about health effects, EPA limits, affected regions, and removal methods.
Lead
criticalHealth risks: Brain damage, developmental delays
Common in: Older homes, Midwest cities
PFAS (Forever Chemicals)
criticalHealth risks: Cancer, immune system damage
Common in: Industrial areas, military bases
Arsenic
criticalHealth risks: Cancer, cardiovascular disease
Common in: Southwest, agricultural regions
Nitrates
highHealth risks: Blue baby syndrome, thyroid issues
Common in: Agricultural areas, Midwest
Chromium-6
highHealth risks: Cancer, allergic reactions
Common in: Industrial areas, California
Bacteria (E. coli, Coliform)
criticalHealth risks: Immediate illness, GI distress
Common in: Rural areas, aging infrastructure
Chlorine & Chloramine
moderateHealth risks: Taste issues, byproduct formation
Common in: All municipal water systems
Pesticides & Herbicides
highHealth risks: Hormone disruption, cancer risk
Common in: Agricultural regions
Fluoride
moderateHealth risks: Dental/skeletal fluorosis at high levels
Common in: Fluoridated systems, natural deposits
Pharmaceuticals
moderateHealth risks: Hormone disruption, antibiotic resistance
Common in: Downstream of wastewater treatment
Water Quality Alerts by City
View contamination risks for major US cities. See which contaminants have been detected, historical issues, and current water quality grades.
What You Should Know
EPA Limits Aren't Always "Safe"
EPA maximum contaminant levels balance health with what's economically feasible. Many scientists argue limits should be lower, especially for lead and PFAS.
Vulnerable Populations at Greater Risk
Infants, pregnant women, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals are more sensitive to contaminants even at levels below EPA limits.
Home Testing is Important
Municipal testing doesn't capture contamination from your home's plumbing. Consider testing for lead if you have older pipes or fixtures.
Protect Your Family from Water Contaminants
The right water filter can remove most contaminants and give you peace of mind. See our recommendations based on your specific water quality issues.