F16/100
Red Oak Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,596 residents · Iowa
What's In Red Oak's Tap Water?
51
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024Enforcement: 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
RED OAK WATER SUPPLY
Population Served
5,596
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IA6950075
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Oak Water
Is Red Oak tap water safe to drink?
Red Oak, Iowa tap water receives a grade of F (16/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 69 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Red Oak's water?
Of the 51 contaminants tested in Red Oak'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 Red Oak have any water quality violations?
Yes, Red Oak has 69 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, MCL. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Red Oak?
Red Oak 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 Red Oak's tap water come from?
Red Oak's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by RED OAK WATER SUPPLY. The system serves approximately 5,596 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Red Oak'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. Red Oak'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 Red Oak's water compare to other cities in Iowa?
Red Oak's water quality score of 16/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Iowa state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Red Oak's water quality?
If you have concerns about Red Oak'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 (RED OAK WATER SUPPLY) 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.