A92/100
Centralia Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 28,765 residents · Illinois
What's In Centralia's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: July 11, 2024 – March 29, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: 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: April 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: Stage 2 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
CARLYLE SOUTHWEST PWD
Population Served
1,815
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL0275120
CLINTON COUNTY EAST PWD
Population Served
1,980
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL0275150
CENTRALIA CORRECTIONAL SITE
Population Served
1,397
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL0275600
WALNUT HILL
Population Served
1,180
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL1210600
CENTRALIA
Population Served
12,182
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
IL1214220
WAMAC
Population Served
1,030
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL1214920
RACCOON WATER COMPANY
Population Served
7,080
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL1215100
IRVINGTON
Population Served
1,081
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL1890250
HOYLETON RWC
Population Served
1,020
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL1895400
Frequently Asked Questions About Centralia Water
Is Centralia tap water safe to drink?
Centralia, Illinois tap water receives a grade of A (92/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 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 Centralia's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Centralia'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 Centralia have any water quality violations?
Yes, Centralia has 47 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Centralia?
Centralia 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 Centralia's tap water come from?
Centralia's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CARLYLE SOUTHWEST PWD and 8 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 28,765 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Centralia'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. Centralia'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 Centralia's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Centralia's water quality score of 92/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Centralia among the better-performing water systems in Illinois. Visit our Illinois state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Centralia's water quality?
If you have concerns about Centralia'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 (CARLYLE SOUTHWEST PWD) 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.