A83/100
Estill Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,120 residents · South Carolina
What's In Estill's Tap Water?
1
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)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 22, 2025 – June 9, 2025Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 1 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 3, 2024 – January 24, 2024Rule: Consumer Confidence 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
ESTILL TOWN OF (SC2510002)
Population Served
2,120
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC2510002
Frequently Asked Questions About Estill Water
Is Estill tap water safe to drink?
Estill, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of A (83/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none 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 Estill's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Estill's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Estill have any water quality violations?
Yes, Estill has 10 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include RPT, Other, MR. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Estill?
Estill water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Estill's tap water come from?
Estill's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by ESTILL TOWN OF (SC2510002). The system serves approximately 2,120 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Estill'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. Estill'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 Estill's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Estill's water quality score of 83/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Estill among the better-performing water systems in South Carolina. Visit our South Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Estill's water quality?
If you have concerns about Estill'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 (ESTILL TOWN OF (SC2510002)) 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.