F0/100
Exeter Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 12,236 residents · New Hampshire
What's In Exeter's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.006 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2019.
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
EXETER WATER DEPT
Population Served
12,236
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NH0801010
Frequently Asked Questions About Exeter Water
Is Exeter tap water safe to drink?
Exeter, New Hampshire tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 68 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Exeter's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Exeter's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, PFOS. 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 Exeter have any water quality violations?
Yes, Exeter has 68 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2019. Violation types include MCL, MR, Other. 38 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Exeter?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Exeter 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 Exeter's tap water come from?
Exeter's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by EXETER WATER DEPT. The system serves approximately 12,236 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Exeter'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. Exeter'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 Exeter's water compare to other cities in New Hampshire?
Exeter's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our New Hampshire state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Exeter's water quality?
If you have concerns about Exeter'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 (EXETER WATER DEPT) 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.