B64/100
Merkel Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,914 residents · Texas
What's In Merkel's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: November 1, 2024 – November 30, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: July 4, 2021Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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 MERKEL
Population Served
2,494
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX2210002
SUN WSC
Population Served
3,420
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX2210015
Frequently Asked Questions About Merkel Water
Is Merkel tap water safe to drink?
Merkel, Texas tap water receives a grade of B (64/100), which is considered good. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Merkel's water?
1 contaminants were tested in Merkel's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Merkel have any water quality violations?
Yes, Merkel has 36 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MON, Other, MR. 9 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Merkel?
Merkel 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. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Merkel's tap water come from?
Merkel's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CITY OF MERKEL and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 5,914 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Merkel'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. Merkel'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 Merkel's water compare to other cities in Texas?
Merkel's water quality score of 64/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Texas state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Merkel's water quality?
If you have concerns about Merkel'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 MERKEL) 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.