F8/100
Bardwell Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,227 residents · Kentucky
What's In Bardwell's Tap Water?
28
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.37 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 240.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2003.
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
BARDWELL CITY UTILITIES
Population Served
1,227
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
KY0200018
Frequently Asked Questions About Bardwell Water
Is Bardwell tap water safe to drink?
Bardwell, Kentucky tap water receives a grade of F (8/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 77 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Bardwell's water?
Of the 28 contaminants tested in Bardwell's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), chlorate. 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 Bardwell have any water quality violations?
Yes, Bardwell has 77 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2003. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Bardwell?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Bardwell 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 Bardwell's tap water come from?
Bardwell's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BARDWELL CITY UTILITIES. The system serves approximately 1,227 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Bardwell'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. Bardwell'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 Bardwell's water compare to other cities in Kentucky?
Bardwell's water quality score of 8/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Kentucky state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Bardwell's water quality?
If you have concerns about Bardwell'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 (BARDWELL CITY 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.