Is Olney, MD Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Olney tap water meets federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards but 3 of 3 ZIP codes show detections above EPA health guidelines, primarily for PFPeA. A certified filter is recommended for households that want an additional layer of protection.
Where Does Olney Get Its Water?
Water in Olney, MD is provided by 1 public water system: WASHINGTON SUBURBAN SANITARY COMMISSION.
How Is Olney Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using chloramines and on-site generated disinfectant. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration).
What's in Olney Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in Olney public water systems. 3 of 3 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFPeA | 0.0041 µg/L | 0.003 µg/L | 3 ZIPs | Above guideline |
| lithium | 9 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| 6:2 FTS | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFBA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for Olney
Based on EPA monitoring data, 3 of 3 ZIP codes in Olney 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 Olney Tap Water
Is Olney tap water safe to drink?
Olney tap water meets Safe Drinking Water Act requirements but 3 of 3 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 Olney tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in Olney water systems include: PFPeA, lithium, PFTrDA. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does Olney get its drinking water?
Olney receives water from one public water system, including WASHINGTON SUBURBAN SANITARY COMMISSION.
Do I need a water filter in Olney?
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 Olney tap water tested?
Public water systems in Olney 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 2024-06-10.
Tap water reports by ZIP in Olney
- 20830 - Olney tap water report Higher concern
- 20832 - District 8, Olney tap water report Higher concern
- 20833 - Ashton-Sandy Spring, Olney tap water report Higher concern
Water utilities serving Olney, MD
Service area boundaries are approximate and based on state filings or modeled estimates. Contact your utility to confirm exact service at a specific address.
- WASHINGTON SUBURBAN SANITARY COMMISSIONAction advised
Also covers / overlaps with
- District 8, MD · Township
- Ashton-Sandy Spring, MD · CDP
- Brookeville, MD · Community
- District 1, MD · Township
- District 4, Lisbon, MD · Township