B78/100
Whittier Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 74,954 residents · California
What's In Whittier's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
1,4-dioxane | 0.520 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
This system has a clean compliance history.
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
WHITTIER-CITY, WATER DEPT.
Population Served
49,954
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CA1910173
ORCHARD DALE WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
25,000
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
CA1910101
Frequently Asked Questions About Whittier Water
Is Whittier tap water safe to drink?
Whittier, California tap water receives a grade of B (78/100), which is considered good. Out of 66 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 4 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 Whittier's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Whittier's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), 1,4-dioxane. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Whittier have any water quality violations?
Yes, Whittier has 5 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2020. Violation types include MR, MCL. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Whittier?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Whittier 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 Whittier's tap water come from?
Whittier's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by WHITTIER-CITY, WATER DEPT. and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 74,954 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Whittier'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. Whittier'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 Whittier's water compare to other cities in California?
Whittier's water quality score of 78/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our California state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Whittier's water quality?
If you have concerns about Whittier'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 (WHITTIER-CITY, WATER DEPT.) 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.