B74/100
Berea Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 18,789 residents · Ohio
What's In Berea'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) | 31.10 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: December 11, 2024 – June 11, 2025Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2023 – January 31, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
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
BEREA CITY PWS
Population Served
18,789
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
OH1800111
Frequently Asked Questions About Berea Water
Is Berea tap water safe to drink?
Berea, Ohio tap water receives a grade of B (74/100), which is considered good. Out of 70 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 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 Berea's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Berea'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 Berea have any water quality violations?
Yes, Berea has 14 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Berea?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Berea 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 Berea's tap water come from?
Berea's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by BEREA CITY PWS. The system serves approximately 18,789 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Berea'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. Berea'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 Berea's water compare to other cities in Ohio?
Berea's water quality score of 74/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Ohio state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Berea's water quality?
If you have concerns about Berea'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 (BEREA 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.