C42/100
Balch Springs Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 28,300 residents · Texas
What's In Balch Springs's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: June 30, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 17, 2024 – August 14, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – August 14, 2025Rule: Ground Water 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
CITY OF BALCH SPRINGS
Population Served
28,300
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX0570032
Frequently Asked Questions About Balch Springs Water
Is Balch Springs tap water safe to drink?
Balch Springs, Texas tap water receives a grade of C (42/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 18 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Balch Springs's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Balch Springs's water supply, the most notable include PFOS. 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 Balch Springs have any water quality violations?
Yes, Balch Springs has 18 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, RPT, TT. 8 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Balch Springs?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Balch Springs 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 Balch Springs's tap water come from?
Balch Springs's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CITY OF BALCH SPRINGS. The system serves approximately 28,300 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Balch Springs'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. Balch Springs'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 Balch Springs's water compare to other cities in Texas?
Balch Springs's water quality score of 42/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Texas state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Balch Springs's water quality?
If you have concerns about Balch Springs'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 (CITY OF BALCH SPRINGS) 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.