D24/100
Carlinville Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 11,668 residents · Illinois
What's In Carlinville's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (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: April 1, 2023 – April 30, 2023Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: 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
CENTRAL MACOUPIN COUNTY RWD
Population Served
1,883
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL1170040
CARLINVILLE
Population Served
6,598
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
IL1170150
LAKE WILLIAMSON CHRISTIAN CENTER
Population Served
1,250
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL1175100
HENDERSON PWD
Population Served
1,937
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL1350010
Frequently Asked Questions About Carlinville Water
Is Carlinville tap water safe to drink?
Carlinville, Illinois tap water receives a grade of D (24/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 135 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Carlinville's water?
Of the 51 contaminants tested in Carlinville'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 Carlinville have any water quality violations?
Yes, Carlinville has 135 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MON, Other. 68 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Carlinville?
Carlinville 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 Carlinville's tap water come from?
Carlinville's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CENTRAL MACOUPIN COUNTY RWD and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 11,668 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Carlinville'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. Carlinville'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 Carlinville's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Carlinville's water quality score of 24/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Illinois state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Carlinville's water quality?
If you have concerns about Carlinville'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 (CENTRAL MACOUPIN COUNTY RWD) 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.