Charleston drinking water comes from a mix of groundwater and surface water sources. Based on the most recent monitoring data, 10 contaminants have been detected in the water supply, including Lead, Nitrate, Copper, Total Trihalomethanes, and 6 others. PFAS compounds have been detected at trace levels in Charleston water. Water hardness is 91 mg/L (moderately hard), which is within a typical range for the region.
Contaminants detected in Charleston water
10 total
Detection does not necessarily mean unsafe levels. See individual reports for concentrations and EPA limits.
Charleston tap water meets EPA legal standards (Maximum Contaminant Levels). However, 3 contaminants are present above independent health guidelines, which are often stricter than legal limits. 10 contaminants have been detected in the water supply, including Lead, Nitrate, Copper, Total Trihalomethanes, Haloacetic Acids (HAA5). View the detailed report for each water system to see specific levels and how they compare to both legal limits and health guidelines.
What contaminants are in Charleston water?
Monitoring has detected 10 contaminants in Charleston's water supply: Lead, Nitrate, Copper, Total Trihalomethanes, Haloacetic Acids (HAA5), Bromate, Barium, Fluoride, Toc, Pfpea. Additionally, 1 PFAS compounds have been detected at trace levels. 3 exceed health guidelines. See individual system reports for concentrations relative to EPA limits.
Does Charleston water have PFAS?
Yes. 1 PFAS compounds have been detected in Charleston's water supply at trace levels. PFAS are sometimes called "forever chemicals" because they do not break down in the environment. The EPA has set Maximum Contaminant Levels for several PFAS compounds. View the detailed report for specific concentrations.
Where does Charleston get its drinking water?
Charleston's drinking water comes from a combination of groundwater and surface water sources. The water is treated and tested according to Illinois EPA and EPA requirements before distribution. Charleston is served by 3 water systems, the largest being CHARLESTON (serving 17,286 people).
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