C59/100
Manchester Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 51,198 residents · Connecticut
What's In Manchester's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.007 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 239.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: November 1, 2024 – November 30, 2024Rule: Stage 1 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: November 1, 2024 – November 30, 2024Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: August 10, 2023 – August 24, 2023Enforcement: 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
MANCHESTER WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
51,198
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CT0770021
Frequently Asked Questions About Manchester Water
Is Manchester tap water safe to drink?
Manchester, Connecticut tap water receives a grade of C (59/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 14 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Manchester's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Manchester's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, chlorate. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Manchester have any water quality violations?
Yes, Manchester has 14 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Manchester?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Manchester is recommended. 1 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 Manchester's tap water come from?
Manchester's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by MANCHESTER WATER DEPARTMENT. The system serves approximately 51,198 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Manchester'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. Manchester'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 Manchester's water compare to other cities in Connecticut?
Manchester's water quality score of 59/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Connecticut state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Manchester's water quality?
If you have concerns about Manchester'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 (MANCHESTER WATER DEPARTMENT) 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.