B77/100
Somerset Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 74,859 residents · Kentucky
What's In Somerset's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2009.
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
SOUTHEASTERN WATER ASSOC/NELSON VALLEY
Population Served
21,895
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
KY1000311
WESTERN PULASKI CO WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
23,264
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
KY1000363
SOMERSET WATER SERVICE
Population Served
29,700
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
KY1000403
Frequently Asked Questions About Somerset Water
Is Somerset tap water safe to drink?
Somerset, Kentucky tap water receives a grade of B (77/100), which is considered good. Out of 76 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 Somerset's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Somerset's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Somerset have any water quality violations?
Yes, Somerset has 46 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include Other, MCL, MON. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Somerset?
Somerset 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. 2 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Somerset's tap water come from?
Somerset's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by SOUTHEASTERN WATER ASSOC/NELSON VALLEY and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 74,859 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Somerset'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. Somerset'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 Somerset's water compare to other cities in Kentucky?
Somerset's water quality score of 77/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Kentucky state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Somerset's water quality?
If you have concerns about Somerset'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 (SOUTHEASTERN WATER ASSOC/NELSON VALLEY) 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.