A85/100
Amherst Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 11,797 residents · Ohio
What's In Amherst's Tap Water?
70
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 130.00 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2021 – August 24, 2021Enforcement: 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
AMHERST CITY PWS
Population Served
11,797
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
OH4700003
Frequently Asked Questions About Amherst Water
Is Amherst tap water safe to drink?
Amherst, Ohio tap water receives a grade of A (85/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 70 contaminants tested, 1 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 Amherst's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Amherst's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 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 Amherst have any water quality violations?
Yes, Amherst has 4 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include Other, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Amherst?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Amherst 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 Amherst's tap water come from?
Amherst's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by AMHERST CITY PWS. The system serves approximately 11,797 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Amherst'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. Amherst'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 Amherst's water compare to other cities in Ohio?
Amherst's water quality score of 85/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Amherst among the better-performing water systems in Ohio. Visit our Ohio state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Amherst's water quality?
If you have concerns about Amherst'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 (AMHERST CITY PWS) 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.