Is Cherokee, AL Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Cherokee tap water meets federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards but 1 of 1 ZIP code show detections above EPA health guidelines, primarily for PFOS. A certified filter is recommended for households that want an additional layer of protection.
Where Does Cherokee Get Its Water?
Water in Cherokee, AL is provided by 1 public water system: COLBERT COUNTY RURAL WATER SYSTEM.
How Is Cherokee Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using chloramines and free chlorine. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration) and membrane filtration.
What's in Cherokee Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in Cherokee public water systems. 1 of 1 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 0.0295 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | 1 ZIP | Above guideline |
| lithium | 9 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFOA | 0.0175 µg/L | — | 1 ZIP | Within guideline |
| PFBA | 0.0098 µg/L | — | 1 ZIP | Within guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for Cherokee
Based on EPA monitoring data, 1 of 1 ZIP codes in Cherokee have recorded detections above EPA health guidelines. Sensitive populations such as infants, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems may benefit from an additional layer of protection such as a certified point-of-use filter.
Best Broad-Spectrum Filters for This Water Profile
This city profile includes PFAS detections, chlorine disinfection, and other dissolved contaminants. Reverse osmosis (RO) systems certified under NSF/ANSI 58 provide broad reduction coverage; for PFAS specifically, confirm NSF/ANSI P473 or equivalent PFAS reduction certification.
8-stage tankless RO system certified to NSF/ANSI 58, reduces 1,000+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, arsenic, fluoride, and nitrates.
See recommendations matched to your exact address: choose your ZIP code below.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cherokee Tap Water
Is Cherokee tap water safe to drink?
Cherokee tap water meets Safe Drinking Water Act requirements but 1 of 1 ZIP codes show contaminant levels above EPA health-based guidelines. A certified point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
What contaminants are in Cherokee tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in Cherokee water systems include: PFOS, lithium, PFOA. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does Cherokee get its drinking water?
Cherokee receives water from one public water system, including COLBERT COUNTY RURAL WATER SYSTEM.
Do I need a water filter in Cherokee?
If your ZIP code is among those with detections above EPA health guidelines, choose a filter certified for the specific contaminants shown in your ZIP report. Reverse osmosis is generally the broadest option for PFAS, lithium, and many other dissolved contaminants.
How often is Cherokee tap water tested?
Public water systems in Cherokee are required by the EPA to test for regulated contaminants on schedules ranging from daily (for microbials and disinfectants) to annual or triennial (for many chemical contaminants). Results are published in annual Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs). The data on this page reflects the most recent available EPA monitoring results, with the latest sample date of 2024-05-14.
Tap water reports by ZIP in Cherokee
- 35616 - Cherokee tap water report Higher concern
Water utilities serving Cherokee, AL
Service area boundaries are approximate and based on state filings or modeled estimates. Contact your utility to confirm exact service at a specific address.
- COLBERT COUNTY RURAL WATER SYSTEMAction advised
Also covers / overlaps with
- Cherokee CCD, AL · Township