Is Essex, IA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Essex 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 Essex Get Its Water?
Water in Essex, IA is provided by 1 public water system: RED OAK WATER SUPPLY.
How Is Essex Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using free chlorine. Treatment includes groundwater disinfection.
What's in Essex Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in Essex public water systems. 1 of 1 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| lithium | 16 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 |
| HFPO-DA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFBA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for Essex
Based on EPA monitoring data, 1 of 1 ZIP codes in Essex 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 Essex Tap Water
Is Essex tap water safe to drink?
Essex 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 Essex tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in Essex water systems include: lithium, PFTrDA, 8:2 FTS. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does Essex get its drinking water?
Essex receives water from one public water system, including RED OAK WATER SUPPLY.
Do I need a water filter in Essex?
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 Essex tap water tested?
Public water systems in Essex 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 2025-09-09.
Tap water reports by ZIP in Essex
- 51638 - Essex tap water report Higher concern
Water utilities serving Essex, IA
Service area boundaries are approximate and based on state filings or modeled estimates. Contact your utility to confirm exact service at a specific address.
- RED OAK WATER SUPPLYAction advised
Also covers / overlaps with
- Fremont, IA · Township
- Grant, IA · Township
- Pierce, IA · Township
- Tarkio, IA · Township