F19/100
Keene Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 30,000 residents · New Hampshire
What's In Keene's Tap Water?
70
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.50 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2012.
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
KEENE WATER DEPT
Population Served
30,000
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NH1241010
Frequently Asked Questions About Keene Water
Is Keene tap water safe to drink?
Keene, New Hampshire tap water receives a grade of F (19/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 21 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Keene's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Keene's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Keene have any water quality violations?
Yes, Keene has 21 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2012. Violation types include TT, MR, MCL. 13 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Keene?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Keene 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 Keene's tap water come from?
Keene's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by KEENE WATER DEPT. The system serves approximately 30,000 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Keene'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. Keene'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 Keene's water compare to other cities in New Hampshire?
Keene's water quality score of 19/100 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 Keene's water quality?
If you have concerns about Keene'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 (KEENE 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.