If you are on city water, your utility sends an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) listing what is in your water. Knowing how to read it tells you what to filter for — and where the report falls short, so you know when to test your own tap.
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Read the report, then test what it can't tell you. A CCR reveals what is in your supply at the plant; for lead and other tap-specific issues, you still test at home before buying a filter.
Community water systems must publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report summarizing detected contaminants and how they compare to federal limits. Utilities typically mail it or post it online by July each year; you can also find guidance at the EPA Consumer Confidence Report guide. If you cannot find yours, call your water provider.
Two columns matter most: the level detected in your water and the MCL (Maximum Contaminant Level), the legal limit under EPA drinking water standards. A detection below the MCL meets federal standards; a detection at or near it deserves attention. Also note the disinfectant used (chlorine vs chloramine), which determines the right filter media.
A CCR reflects water as it leaves the treatment plant and the distribution system — not after it travels through your home's plumbing. That is why lead, which usually comes from household pipes, will not show up accurately in a CCR. For lead and other tap-specific concerns, test at home — see water test kits.
Community water systems must make the Consumer Confidence Report available by July 1 each year, covering the prior year's water quality. Many utilities mail it, post it online, or include a link on your bill; if you cannot find yours, call the utility or check the EPA Consumer Confidence Report guide. Apartment dwellers can request it from the building or the local water provider.
A few terms unlock the report. MCL is the legal maximum; MCLG is the health-based goal (often lower, sometimes zero); an action level (AL) applies to lead and copper. Levels appear in ppm (parts per million) or ppb (parts per billion), and the table usually shows both the range and the average detected. "ND" means not detected. A dedicated violations section flags anything that exceeded a standard during the year.
Confirm what is actually at your tap — the results guide your system choice and support your Letter of Medical Necessity.
Check the test kit →Combine your CCR with a home test, then match contaminants to a system: a whole-house filter for chlorine and broad coverage, RO for drinking-water specifics, and so on. The result is also documentation for your Letter of Medical Necessity.
An annual report community water systems must publish, listing detected contaminants and how they compare to federal limits. Utilities usually issue it by July each year.
Not accurately. A CCR reflects water at the plant and distribution system, while lead usually comes from household plumbing. Test at your own tap for lead.
Note any contaminant near its limit and the disinfectant used, combine that with a home test, then match the contaminants to the right system.
