F14/100
Elkhart Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 46,455 residents · Indiana
What's In Elkhart's Tap Water?
67
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.40 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Other Violation
When: July 11, 2023 – August 7, 2023Rule: Total Coliform 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
ELKHART PUBLIC WORKS AND UTILITIES
Population Served
46,455
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IN5220008
Frequently Asked Questions About Elkhart Water
Is Elkhart tap water safe to drink?
Elkhart, Indiana tap water receives a grade of F (14/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 75 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Elkhart's water?
Of the 67 contaminants tested in Elkhart's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Elkhart have any water quality violations?
Yes, Elkhart has 75 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include Other, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Elkhart?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Elkhart 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 Elkhart's tap water come from?
Elkhart's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by ELKHART PUBLIC WORKS AND UTILITIES. The system serves approximately 46,455 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Elkhart'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. Elkhart'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 Elkhart's water compare to other cities in Indiana?
Elkhart's water quality score of 14/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Indiana state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Elkhart's water quality?
If you have concerns about Elkhart'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 (ELKHART PUBLIC WORKS AND UTILITIES) 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.