A96/100
Essex Junction Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 19,234 residents · Vermont
What's In Essex Junction's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
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.
TIER 3Unresolved
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.
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
ESSEX TOWN WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
9,734
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
VT0005065
ESSEX JCT WATER DEPT
Population Served
9,500
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
VT0005066
Frequently Asked Questions About Essex Junction Water
Is Essex Junction tap water safe to drink?
Essex Junction, Vermont tap water receives a grade of A (96/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 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 Essex Junction's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Essex Junction'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 Essex Junction have any water quality violations?
Yes, Essex Junction has 4 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Essex Junction?
Essex Junction 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 Essex Junction's tap water come from?
Essex Junction's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by ESSEX TOWN WATER SYSTEM and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 19,234 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Essex Junction'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. Essex Junction'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 Essex Junction's water compare to other cities in Vermont?
Essex Junction's water quality score of 96/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Essex Junction among the better-performing water systems in Vermont. Visit our Vermont state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Essex Junction's water quality?
If you have concerns about Essex Junction'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 (ESSEX TOWN WATER SYSTEM) 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.