D37/100
Lowell Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 115,000 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Lowell's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 212.05 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
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
LOWELL REGIONAL WATER UTILITY
Population Served
115,000
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MA3160000
Frequently Asked Questions About Lowell Water
Is Lowell tap water safe to drink?
Lowell, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of D (37/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 40 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Lowell's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Lowell's water supply, the most notable include chlorate. 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 Lowell have any water quality violations?
Yes, Lowell has 40 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, TT. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Lowell?
Lowell 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 Lowell's tap water come from?
Lowell's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by LOWELL REGIONAL WATER UTILITY. The system serves approximately 115,000 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Lowell'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. Lowell'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 Lowell's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Lowell's water quality score of 37/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Massachusetts state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Lowell's water quality?
If you have concerns about Lowell'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 (LOWELL REGIONAL WATER UTILITY) 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.