B72/100
Aiken Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 50,287 residents · South Carolina
What's In Aiken's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
3
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Violation related to Nitrite
When: July 1, 2021Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 2Resolved
Violation related to Nitrite
When: June 1, 2021Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 2Resolved
Violation related to Nitrite
When: May 1, 2021Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
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
AIKEN CITY OF (0210001)
Population Served
45,090
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
SC0210001
COLLEGE ACRES PUBLIC W/D (SC0220002)
Population Served
1,360
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC0220002
MONTMORENCI W/D (SC0220008)
Population Served
3,837
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC0220008
Frequently Asked Questions About Aiken Water
Is Aiken tap water safe to drink?
Aiken, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of B (72/100), which is considered good. 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 Aiken's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Aiken'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 Aiken have any water quality violations?
Yes, Aiken has 26 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include TT, MR, MCL. 9 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Aiken?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Aiken 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 Aiken's tap water come from?
Aiken's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by AIKEN CITY OF (0210001) and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 50,287 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Aiken'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. Aiken'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 Aiken's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Aiken'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 South Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Aiken's water quality?
If you have concerns about Aiken'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 (AIKEN CITY OF (0210001)) 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.