The Free Water Report

Water Quality Report
San Diego, CA

7 contaminants exceed guidelines
3 at elevated levels
10 contaminants analyzed

Contaminants Detected

Based on the most recent testing data from your local water utility. Compared against health guidelines set by independent researchers.

Dibromochloromethane

Health protective benchmarks for DBCM have been developed based on liver toxicity and carcinogenicity observed in animal studies

Exceeds Guidelines
485xabove health guideline
48.5 PPB
Detected
0.10 PPB
Health Guideline
80.0 PPB
EPA Legal Limit
Tap for health details

Total THMs

Drinking water standards for total THMs are based on evidence of carcinogenicity in human and animal studies, as well as liver and kidney toxicity ...

Exceeds Guidelines
378xabove health guideline
121 PPB
Detected
0.32 PPB
Health Guideline
80.0 PPB
EPA Legal Limit
Tap for health details

Dibromoacetic Acid (DBA)

Health protective benchmarks for DBA have been developed based on carcinogenicity and male reproductive toxicity observed in animal studies

Exceeds Guidelines
274xabove health guideline
0.008 PPM
Detected
0.000 PPM
Health Guideline
N/A
EPA Legal Limit
Tap for health details

Chloroform

Health protective benchmarks for chloroform have been developed based on kidney toxicity and carcinogenicity observed in animal studies, and liver ...

Exceeds Guidelines
160xabove health guideline
35.4 PPB
Detected
0.22 PPB
Health Guideline
80.0 PPB
EPA Legal Limit
Tap for health details

Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)

Health protective benchmarks for TCA in drinking water have been developed based on liver toxicity and carcinogenicity observed in animal studies

Exceeds Guidelines
105xabove health guideline
0.01 PPM
Detected
0.000 PPM
Health Guideline
0.06 PPM
EPA Legal Limit
Tap for health details

Radium 228

Radium-228 and its breakdown products release high energy particles called alpha, beta, and gamma rays responsible for its health effects

Exceeds Guidelines
103xabove health guideline
2.0 pCi/L
Detected
0.02 pCi/L
Health Guideline
N/A
EPA Legal Limit
Tap for health details

Chlorite

Drinking water standards for chlorite have been developed based on toxicity to the developing brain (a developmental effect) observed in animal stu...

Exceeds Guidelines
20xabove health guideline
1.0 PPM
Detected
0.05 PPM
Health Guideline
1.0 PPM
EPA Legal Limit
Tap for health details

Lead

Health protective benchmarks for oral exposure to lead are based on delays in physical or mental development for children and infants, and impacts ...

Elevated
5xabove health guideline
0.07 PPM
Detected
0.01 PPM
Health Guideline
0.01 PPM
EPA Legal Limit
Tap for health details

Aluminum

Much of the current research on the health effects of aluminum in drinking water is still inconclusive and controversial

Elevated
4xabove health guideline
0.27 PPM
Detected
0.07 PPM
Health Guideline
N/A
EPA Legal Limit
Tap for health details

Molybdenum

Health protective benchmarks for molybdenum are based on adverse kidney effects.

Elevated
2xabove health guideline
0.04 PPM
Detected
0.03 PPM
Health Guideline
N/A
EPA Legal Limit
Tap for health details

Understanding this report

Health guidelines vs. legal limits: The EPA sets legal limits (MCLs) for contaminants — but these are based on feasibility and cost, not just health. Independent health organizations set stricter guidelines based on the latest science. A contaminant can be “legal” but still exceed health-based guidelines.

“Times above guideline”: This shows how many times higher the detected level is compared to the health guideline. For example, “281x” means the detected level is 281 times higher than what health researchers recommend.

What you can do: A whole-home or point-of-use water filtration system can significantly reduce or eliminate most contaminants. The right system depends on your specific water — a professional water test at your tap is the best way to determine what you need.

Nearby water quality reports

Check water quality for other zip codes near San Diego, CA.

Free — No Obligation

Get your free water test

A professional water test at your tap reveals what a zip code report can't — exactly what's in your water.

We'll never spam you. Your info is only used to schedule your free water test.

Why test your water at home?

  • Utility data is an average — your tap may differ based on your pipes and plumbing
  • Identifies contaminants specific to your home
  • Professional lab analysis with detailed results
  • 100% free, no obligation

Frequently asked questions about San Diego, CA water

Is the tap water in San Diego, CA safe to drink?

The tap water in San Diego, CA meets EPA legal standards, but 7 contaminants exceed health guidelines set by independent researchers. While legally compliant, long-term exposure to elevated contaminant levels may pose health risks.

What contaminants are in San Diego, CA water?

Common contaminants found in San Diego, CA water include disinfection byproducts (like trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids), which are created when chlorine reacts with organic matter during water treatment. Other potential contaminants include heavy metals, nitrates, and PFAS chemicals. See the full report above for specific levels.

How can I improve my water quality in San Diego, CA?

The most effective way to improve your water quality is with a whole-home or under-sink water filtration system designed to target the specific contaminants in your water. A professional in-home water test is the best first step — it identifies exactly what's in your water so you can choose the right solution.

Where does San Diego, CA get its drinking water?

Drinking water in San Diego, CA comes from the local public water system, which may source water from surface water (rivers, lakes, reservoirs) or groundwater (wells, aquifers). The specific source affects which contaminants may be present. Contact your local water utility for details about your specific water source.