A80/100
El Paso Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,812 residents · Illinois
What's In El Paso's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.40 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 1999.
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
EL PASO
Population Served
2,812
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IL2030150
Frequently Asked Questions About El Paso Water
Is El Paso tap water safe to drink?
El Paso, Illinois tap water receives a grade of A (80/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 2 contaminants tested, 1 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 El Paso's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in El Paso's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does El Paso have any water quality violations?
Yes, El Paso has 8 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 1999. Violation types include MR, MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in El Paso?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in El Paso 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 El Paso's tap water come from?
El Paso's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by EL PASO. The system serves approximately 2,812 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is El Paso'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. El Paso'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 El Paso's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
El Paso's water quality score of 80/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places El Paso 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 El Paso's water quality?
If you have concerns about El Paso'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 (EL PASO) 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.