What Chicago Residents Should Know
Chicago's drinking water meets all federal and state standards at the water treatment plants. However, after leaving the treatment plants, water can become contaminated as it passes through the city's aging infrastructure, particularly through lead service lines that connect homes to water mains.
The primary concern is lead contamination, which affects many neighborhoods across the city. Chicago has the most lead service lines of any U.S. city, with approximately 400,000 lead pipes still in use. The city has implemented a lead service line replacement program, but progress has been slow.
Other concerns include occasional detection of industrial pollutants, pharmaceuticals, and microplastics in Lake Michigan, Chicago's water source.
Key Contaminants Found
These contaminants have been detected in Chicago's water supply at levels that may be concerning for some residents.
Lead
Exceeds in Some AreasSource: Lead service lines, lead solder, and older plumbing fixtures
Health Effects: Developmental issues in children, decreased kidney function, reproductive problems, high blood pressure
Chicago Levels: Average 5.4 ppb (90th percentile), with 7% of samples exceeding the EPA action level of 15 ppb
EPA Limit: Action level 15 ppb, but no safe level exists
Haloacetic Acids (HAAs)
Near LimitSource: Byproducts of drinking water disinfection process
Health Effects: Possible increased risk of cancer with long-term exposure
Chicago Levels: 18.1 ppb average, with maximum detected levels of 35 ppb
EPA Limit: 60 ppb
Total Trihalomethanes
Near LimitSource: Byproducts of drinking water disinfection process
Health Effects: Possible increased risk of cancer, liver and kidney problems
Chicago Levels: 32.6 ppb average, with maximum detected levels of 56 ppb
EPA Limit: 80 ppb
Pharmaceuticals
Low LevelsSource: Wastewater from hospitals, households, and pharmaceutical manufacturing
Health Effects: Unknown long-term effects, possible endocrine disruption
Chicago Levels: Trace amounts detected in some samples
EPA Limit: Not currently regulated
Neighborhood Variations
Water quality can vary significantly across Chicago neighborhoods, primarily due to differences in housing age, pipe materials, and infrastructure maintenance.
High-Risk Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Risk Level | Average Lead (ppb) | Housing Built Pre-1986 | Lead Service Lines |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | High | 9.8 | 78% | Very High |
| Englewood | High | 8.7 | 85% | Very High |
| Rogers Park | High | 7.9 | 82% | High |
| South Shore | High | 7.2 | 76% | High |
| West Town | Medium | 6.8 | 74% | High |
| Logan Square | Medium | 5.4 | 71% | Medium |
Data based on Chicago Department of Water Management sampling and U.S. Census housing statistics.
Recommended Action Steps
Based on Chicago's water quality data, we recommend these actions to protect yourself and your family.
Test Your Water
Request a free water testing kit from the Chicago Department of Water Management or use a certified laboratory to test your home's water for lead and other contaminants.
Get a Test KitFlush Your Pipes
If your water has been sitting for several hours, run the cold water tap until the water is noticeably colder before using it for drinking or cooking. This helps flush out any lead that may have accumulated.
Use Cold Water for Consumption
Only use cold water for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula. Hot water is more likely to contain elevated levels of lead and other contaminants.
Consider a Water Filter
Install a water filter certified to remove lead and other contaminants. Look for filters that are NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certified for lead reduction and Standard 42 for chlorine removal.
Filter OptionsCheck for Lead Service Lines
Determine if your home has lead service lines. Chicago homes built before 1986 are more likely to have them. You can check the material of your service line using a simple scratch test or by consulting a professional.
Apply for Lead Service Line Replacement
If you have lead service lines, apply for Chicago's Lead Service Line Replacement Program. Eligible homeowners can get assistance with replacement costs.
Program DetailsWater Testing & Filtration
Resources for Chicago residents to test and filter their tap water.
Free Lead Testing Program
The Chicago Department of Water Management offers free water quality testing to residents. You can request a testing kit online or by phone.
- Testing is completely free for Chicago residents
- Results typically available within 2-3 weeks
- Tests specifically for lead contamination
Recommended Water Filters
For homes with lead concerns, we recommend using filters certified to remove lead and other contaminants.
Look for these certifications:
- NSF/ANSI Standard 53 (for lead reduction)
- NSF/ANSI Standard 42 (for chlorine and taste)
- NSF/ANSI Standard 401 (for emerging contaminants)
Effective filter types:
- Pitcher filters with lead reduction certification
- Faucet-mounted filters
- Under-sink reverse osmosis systems
Want to know your personal water quality risk?
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