A98/100
Ralph Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 6,015 residents · Alabama
What's In Ralph's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 11, 2022 – October 14, 2022Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: 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
FOSTERS-RALPH WATER AUTHORITY
Population Served
6,015
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AL0001302
Frequently Asked Questions About Ralph Water
Is Ralph tap water safe to drink?
Ralph, Alabama tap water receives a grade of A (98/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Ralph's water?
31 contaminants were tested in Ralph's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Ralph have any water quality violations?
Yes, Ralph has 2 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include RPT, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Ralph?
Ralph 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. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Ralph's tap water come from?
Ralph's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by FOSTERS-RALPH WATER AUTHORITY. The system serves approximately 6,015 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Ralph'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. Ralph'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 Ralph's water compare to other cities in Alabama?
Ralph's water quality score of 98/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Ralph 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 Ralph's water quality?
If you have concerns about Ralph'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 (FOSTERS-RALPH 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.