B72/100
Merrick Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 369,900 residents · New York
What's In Merrick's Tap Water?
73
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.004 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
3
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Public notification violation
When: July 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Public notification violation
When: January 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Public notification violation
When: July 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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
LIBERTY UTILITIES NEW YORK - LYNBROOK
Population Served
220,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NY2902835
LIBERTY UTILITIES NEW YORK - MERRICK
Population Served
135,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NY2902840
LIBERTY UTILITIES NEW YORK - SEA CLIFF
Population Served
13,400
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NY2902853
MOUNT EBO WS
Population Served
1,500
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NY3920885
Frequently Asked Questions About Merrick Water
Is Merrick tap water safe to drink?
Merrick, New York tap water receives a grade of B (72/100), which is considered good. Out of 74 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 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 Merrick's water?
Of the 74 contaminants tested in Merrick's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), cobalt. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Merrick have any water quality violations?
Yes, Merrick has 70 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include TT, MR. 6 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Merrick?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Merrick 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 Merrick's tap water come from?
Merrick's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by LIBERTY UTILITIES NEW YORK - LYNBROOK and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 369,900 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Merrick'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. Merrick'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 Merrick's water compare to other cities in New York?
Merrick's water quality score of 72/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our New York state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Merrick's water quality?
If you have concerns about Merrick'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 (LIBERTY UTILITIES NEW YORK - LYNBROOK) 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.