What's Actually in Your Water?
The EPA regulates over 90 contaminants in public drinking water, but that doesn't mean your water is always safe. Contamination can occur between the treatment plant and your tap — in aging pipes, storage systems, and distribution lines. Common contaminants found in US home water supplies include:
Common Water Contaminants by Category
The good news: testing your water has never been easier or more affordable. Here's how to approach it, from free options to comprehensive lab analysis.
Step 1: Start Free — EWG Tap Water Database
Before spending any money, check the EWG Tap Water Database at ewg.org/tapwater. Enter your zip code to see:
- Which contaminants your utility has detected
- How detected levels compare to health guidelines (which are often stricter than legal limits)
- PFAS contamination at your specific utility
- Historical violations and trends
The EWG database is based on official EPA monitoring data and utility reports — the same data your water company is required to publish in their annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). It's a free and effective first step.
Your water utility is legally required to publish an annual water quality report (CCR) by July 1 each year. Search "[your city or utility name] water quality report 2026" or "annual water quality report" to find yours. It will list all detected contaminants and whether they meet federal standards.
Step 2: DIY Home Test Kits
Home test kits are fast, affordable, and can detect most common contaminants. Here's how to think about them:
Basic Test Strips ($10–$25)
Test strips (dip-and-read) detect a handful of parameters including pH, water hardness, chlorine, nitrates, and in some cases lead. They're color-coded and give results in under 5 minutes.
Best for: Quick checks on chlorine, hardness, pH, nitrates.
Limitation: Low precision, binary results (present/not present), cannot detect PFAS, bacteria, or heavy metals at low concentrations.
Where to buy: Amazon, Home Depot, hardware stores. Brands include Safe Home, Varify, and WaterSafe.
Comprehensive Home Test Kits ($50–$150)
More advanced mail-in kits combine at-home sample collection with certified lab analysis. You collect water, mail it in, and get results online within a few days.
Recommended Comprehensive Water Test Kits
Step 3: Lab Testing for PFAS
If you want to know whether PFAS is in your water, you need a certified laboratory test. These tests analyze for specific PFAS compounds using EPA Method 533 or 537.1 — the gold standards for PFAS water analysis.
PFAS-Specific Lab Tests
PFAS Water Testing Options
How it works: You order the kit, receive a collection vessel and instructions, collect your water sample, and mail it back in the prepaid container. Results are typically available online in 1–3 weeks.
What to look for: PFOA and PFOS are the most studied. The EPA MCL is 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for each. EWG's health guideline is even stricter at 1 ppt. If your results show any detection, a certified filter is warranted.
Local Certified Labs
Your state environmental agency may have a list of state-certified labs that test for PFAS. Search "EPA drinking water laboratory certification [your state]" or visit the EPA's Laboratory Certification Program page. Local labs may offer same-week turnaround.
Step 4: Interpreting Your Results
Once you have results, here's how to interpret them:
What to Do Based on Your Results
Step 5: What to Do If You Find Contaminants
PFAS Found → Get a Certified Filter
If your test reveals PFAS contamination, a filter certified to NSF/ANSI 401 will address it. The most practical option at the pitcher level is the Clearly Filtered pitcher (99.5% PFAS removal, independently certified). For whole-house or under-sink coverage, a certified reverse osmosis system is the most comprehensive solution.
See our complete breakdown of certified options:
Best Water Filters for PFAS 2026 →
Lead Found → Filter + Professional Assessment
Lead in water almost always comes from pipes, plumbing, or fixtures — not the water source itself. In older homes (pre-1986), lead solder and pipes are common. A filter certified to NSF 53 for lead removal is an immediate solution. Long-term, consider a licensed plumber's assessment of your pipes.
Bacteria Found → UV or RO System
Bacterial contamination is most common in private wells. UV purification (ultraviolet light) is highly effective against bacteria and viruses without chemicals. A reverse osmosis system with a UV stage handles bacteria plus chemical contamination. If you're on a well and detect bacteria, test quarterly — bacterial contamination can be intermittent.
Reporting Your Results
If you're on municipal water and your test reveals contaminants above legal limits, contact your water utility and your state drinking water program. You may also be able to file a complaint with the EPA. Private well owners should contact their county health department.