A84/100
Glen Carbon Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 12,618 residents · Illinois
What's In Glen Carbon's Tap Water?
66
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
2
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
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: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: 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
GLEN CARBON
Population Served
12,618
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL1190300
Frequently Asked Questions About Glen Carbon Water
Is Glen Carbon tap water safe to drink?
Glen Carbon, Illinois tap water receives a grade of A (84/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 66 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 Glen Carbon's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Glen Carbon'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 Glen Carbon have any water quality violations?
Yes, Glen Carbon has 13 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Glen Carbon?
Glen Carbon 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 Glen Carbon's tap water come from?
Glen Carbon's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by GLEN CARBON. The system serves approximately 12,618 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Glen Carbon'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. Glen Carbon'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 Glen Carbon's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Glen Carbon's water quality score of 84/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Glen Carbon 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 Glen Carbon's water quality?
If you have concerns about Glen Carbon'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 (GLEN CARBON) 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.