F0/100
Tempe Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 166,388 residents · Arizona
What's In Tempe's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.009 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.004 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2018.
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
TEMPE CITY OF
Population Served
165,000
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AZ0407100
BERNEIL WATER COMPANY
Population Served
1,388
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AZ0407008
Frequently Asked Questions About Tempe Water
Is Tempe tap water safe to drink?
Tempe, Arizona tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 533 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Tempe's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Tempe's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, Lead (90th percentile). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Tempe have any water quality violations?
Yes, Tempe has 533 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MR, RPT. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Tempe?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Tempe is recommended. 2 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Tempe's tap water come from?
Tempe's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by TEMPE CITY OF and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 166,388 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Tempe'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. Tempe'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 Tempe's water compare to other cities in Arizona?
Tempe's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Arizona state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Tempe's water quality?
If you have concerns about Tempe'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 (TEMPE CITY OF) 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.