A82/100
Bessemer Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 124,791 residents · Alabama
What's In Bessemer's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 440.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 17, 2024 – October 24, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2022 – September 30, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2022 – September 30, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
WARRIOR RIVER WATER AUTHORITY
Population Served
38,700
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AL0000763
BESSEMER WATER SERVICE
Population Served
86,091
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0000737
Frequently Asked Questions About Bessemer Water
Is Bessemer tap water safe to drink?
Bessemer, Alabama tap water receives a grade of A (82/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 76 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Bessemer's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Bessemer's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Bessemer have any water quality violations?
Yes, Bessemer has 14 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, RPT, MCL. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Bessemer?
Bessemer water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 2 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Bessemer's tap water come from?
Bessemer's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by WARRIOR RIVER WATER AUTHORITY and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 124,791 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Bessemer's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Bessemer's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Bessemer's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Bessemer's water quality score of 82/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Bessemer among the better-performing water systems in Alabama. Visit our Alabama state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Bessemer's water quality?
If you have concerns about Bessemer's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (WARRIOR RIVER WATER AUTHORITY) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.