Is Ouray, CO Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Ouray tap water meets federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards but 1 of 1 ZIP code show detections above EPA health guidelines, primarily for lithium. A certified filter is recommended for households that want an additional layer of protection.
Where Does Ouray Get Its Water?
Water in Ouray, CO is provided by 1 public water system: TRI COUNTY WCD.
How Is Ouray Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using free chlorine. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration) and post-ozone biofiltration.
What's in Ouray Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in Ouray public water systems. 1 of 1 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| lithium | 14.4 µg/L | 10 µg/L | 1 ZIP | Above guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| 8:2 FTS | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFBA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| HFPO-DA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for Ouray
Based on EPA monitoring data, 1 of 1 ZIP codes in Ouray 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 Filters for PFAS Water Profile
PFAS compounds are detected in this water supply. A reverse osmosis (RO) system or an activated-carbon filter specifically certified under NSF/ANSI P473 is required for reliable PFAS reduction. Standard pitcher and faucet filters without P473 certification do not remove PFAS.
8-stage tankless RO system certified to NSF/ANSI 58, reduces 1,000+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, arsenic, fluoride, and nitrates.
NSF-certified dual-layer filtration reduces 70+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, chlorine, microplastics, and bacteria.
See recommendations matched to your exact address: choose your ZIP code below.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ouray Tap Water
Is Ouray tap water safe to drink?
Ouray 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 Ouray tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in Ouray water systems include: lithium, PFTrDA, 8:2 FTS. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does Ouray get its drinking water?
Ouray receives water from one public water system, including TRI COUNTY WCD.
Do I need a water filter in Ouray?
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 Ouray tap water tested?
Public water systems in Ouray 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 2024-03-18.
Tap water reports by ZIP in Ouray
- 81427 - Ouray tap water report Higher concern
Water utilities serving Ouray, CO
Service area boundaries are approximate and based on state filings or modeled estimates. Contact your utility to confirm exact service at a specific address.
- OURAY CITY OFNo recent federal sampling
Also covers / overlaps with
- Ouray CCD, CO · Township