Copper
Approaching LimitDetected level
0.7244 mg/L
0%EPA Limit (1.3 mg/L)
56% of EPA limit
Health effects: Can cause gastrointestinal distress at high levels. Long-term exposure may damage the liver and kidneys.
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Tap Water Safety Report for Waterloo, Iowa
Waterloo, Iowa tap water scored 73/100 (B-) based on EPA data. While the water meets minimum EPA standards, 1 contaminant(s) are at elevated levels worth monitoring.
Overall Score
73/100
Grade: B-
Contaminants Tested
9
All within limits
EPA Violations
1
All resolved
Water Source
groundwater
Mixed sources
Population Served
71,244
residents
Water Systems
1
serving this area
1 contaminant(s) are approaching EPA limits and should be monitored.
Detected level
0.7244 mg/L
56% of EPA limit
Health effects: Can cause gastrointestinal distress at high levels. Long-term exposure may damage the liver and kidneys.
Based on Waterloo's water quality data, here are our specific recommendations:
With 1 contaminant(s) at elevated levels, a certified pitcher or faucet filter provides an affordable layer of protection. Look for NSF/ANSI certification.
City water reports reflect water leaving the treatment plant. Your home pipes may add contaminants, especially in older buildings. Test at the tap for the most accurate picture.
How contaminant levels compare to EPA limits (50% of overall score)
EPA violation history and enforcement actions (30% of overall score)
Water system infrastructure and source quality (20% of overall score)
Waterloo's water scored 73/100 with 1 contaminant(s) at elevated levels. Children are more vulnerable to water contaminants due to their lower body weight and developing systems. We recommend using a certified water filter for any water used for baby formula, cooking for children, or children's drinking water. A pitcher filter with NSF certification is an affordable first step.
Waterloo's water has been tested for 9 contaminants. None currently exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. The most notable detections include: Copper (0.7244 mg/L, EPA limit: 1.3 mg/L — 56% of limit); Nitrate (4.6528 mg/L, EPA limit: 10 mg/L — 47% of limit); Mercury (0.0009 mg/L, EPA limit: 0.002 mg/L — 46% of limit); Lead (0.0061 mg/L, EPA limit: 0.015 mg/L — 41% of limit); Total Trihalomethanes (26.4402 ug/L, EPA limit: 80 ug/L — 33% of limit). The water system has no active EPA violations. Water quality can vary seasonally and by neighborhood, so home testing provides the most accurate picture for your specific tap.
Yes, we recommend filtering your water in Waterloo. With a score of 73/100 and 1 contaminant(s) at elevated levels, a certified water filter adds a meaningful layer of protection. A faucet-mounted or pitcher filter with NSF/ANSI 53 certification is a good starting point. For more thorough contaminant removal, consider an under-sink reverse osmosis system, especially if you have specific concerns about Copper.
Waterloo's water quality score of 73/100 (B-) is 1 points above the national average of 72. The city's water comes from a mix of groundwater and surface water sources. While the water meets minimum federal standards, there is room for improvement compared to top-performing cities. You can see how Waterloo compares to nearby cities in our state rankings.
Detailed contaminant data, violation history, and water system information for Waterloo.
Find the best water filter for Waterloo based on detected contaminants and your budget.
See how Waterloo compares to other cities across Iowa.
See how Waterloo ranks among all cities in the US for water quality.
Data Disclaimer
This report is based on publicly available EPA data and water quality test results. Water quality can vary by neighborhood, building age, and season. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional water testing. If you have specific health concerns about your water, contact your local water utility or a certified water testing laboratory. Last data update: February 2, 2026.