F5/100
Rhinelander Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 8,234 residents · Wisconsin
What's In Rhinelander's Tap Water?
51
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.007 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 340.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – March 25, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
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
RHINELANDER WATER & WASTEWATER
Population Served
8,234
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WI7440126
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinelander Water
Is Rhinelander tap water safe to drink?
Rhinelander, Wisconsin tap water receives a grade of F (5/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 69 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Rhinelander's water?
Of the 51 contaminants tested in Rhinelander's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Rhinelander have any water quality violations?
Yes, Rhinelander has 69 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include TT, Other, MR. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Rhinelander?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Rhinelander 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 Rhinelander's tap water come from?
Rhinelander's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by RHINELANDER WATER & WASTEWATER. The system serves approximately 8,234 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Rhinelander'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. Rhinelander'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 Rhinelander's water compare to other cities in Wisconsin?
Rhinelander's water quality score of 5/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Wisconsin state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Rhinelander's water quality?
If you have concerns about Rhinelander'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 (RHINELANDER WATER & WASTEWATER) 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.