C47/100
Salem Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 16,850 residents · Ohio
What's In Salem'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) | 345.00 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.009 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2022 – March 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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
SALEM CITY
Population Served
16,850
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
OH1502011
Frequently Asked Questions About Salem Water
Is Salem tap water safe to drink?
Salem, Ohio tap water receives a grade of C (47/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 22 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Salem's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Salem'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 Salem have any water quality violations?
Yes, Salem has 22 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Salem?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Salem 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 Salem's tap water come from?
Salem's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by SALEM CITY. The system serves approximately 16,850 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Salem'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. Salem'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 Salem's water compare to other cities in Ohio?
Salem's water quality score of 47/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Ohio state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Salem's water quality?
If you have concerns about Salem'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 (SALEM CITY) 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.