B75/100
Harrington Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 3,562 residents · Delaware
What's In Harrington's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2021 – August 30, 2022Rule: Ground Water 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
HARRINGTON WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
3,562
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
DE0000126
Frequently Asked Questions About Harrington Water
Is Harrington tap water safe to drink?
Harrington, Delaware tap water receives a grade of B (75/100), which is considered good. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 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 Harrington's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Harrington's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Harrington have any water quality violations?
Yes, Harrington has 14 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include MR, MON, Other. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Harrington?
Harrington 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. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Harrington's tap water come from?
Harrington's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by HARRINGTON WATER DEPARTMENT. The system serves approximately 3,562 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Harrington'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. Harrington'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 Harrington's water compare to other cities in Delaware?
Harrington's water quality score of 75/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Delaware state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Harrington's water quality?
If you have concerns about Harrington'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 (HARRINGTON 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.