Phoenix – Arizona
Phoenix, America’s fifth-largest city, manages water delivery to over 1.6 million residents in one of the driest metropolitan areas in the world. The Phoenix Water Services Department operates an extensive distribution system with 7,000 miles of water mains, 44 reservoirs, and over 100 pumping stations, delivering roughly 180 billion gallons annually.
Unlike many cities that rely on surface water, Phoenix has mastered the art of utilizing multiple water sources including groundwater, Central Arizona Project (CAP) canal water, and recycled water. The city has invested heavily in water infrastructure and conservation technologies, making it a global leader in urban water sustainability despite receiving only about 8 inches of rain annually. Phoenix’s comprehensive water management approach combines advanced treatment technology, robust groundwater recharge programs, and one of the nation’s most extensive recycled water systems.
Phoenix Water Quality: Current Status (2024-2025)
Latest Testing Results
- Lead Levels: The most recent testing period (January-December 2023) showed 90th percentile lead levels of less than 1 part per billion (ppb), significantly below the EPA action level of 15 ppb.
- Testing Scope: Phoenix conducts over 60,000 water quality tests annually, including lead and copper monitoring at 75 homes specifically selected in neighborhoods with the oldest plumbing.
- Compliance Status: Phoenix’s water meets or exceeds all federal and state drinking water standards, having never failed to meet primary regulatory requirements since the Safe Drinking Water Act was enacted.
Water Sources and Treatment
- Multiple Water Sources: Phoenix’s water portfolio includes: 35% Colorado River water via the Central Arizona Project, 30% Salt River water, 20% Verde River water, and 15% groundwater (as of 2024). This diversification helps maintain supply reliability during drought conditions.
- Advanced Water Treatment: Phoenix operates six major water treatment plants that process both surface water and groundwater. All plants use advanced technologies including membrane filtration, ozonation, and biological activated carbon for enhanced treatment.
- Groundwater Management: Phoenix has discontinued using “legacy” groundwater wells with naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic and fluoride, instead focusing on blending high-quality aquifer water with treated surface water.
Sustainability Initiatives
- Artificial Groundwater Recharge: Phoenix operates extensive facilities that help replenish the Sonoran Desert aquifers during times of water surplus, storing over 500,000 acre-feet of water underground for future use.
- Water Recycling Leadership: The city’s award-winning reclaimed water system delivers treated wastewater for irrigation, industrial uses, and groundwater recharge, recycling over 98% of the wastewater it treats annually.
- Drought Contingency Plan: Phoenix has implemented a comprehensive Drought Contingency Plan with staged response levels based on available water resources, focusing on conservation incentives and infrastructure improvements.
Infrastructure Improvements
- Water Main Replacement: The city is replacing over 125 miles of aging water mains annually, prioritizing pipes installed before 1970 to reduce system water loss and improve reliability.
- Reservoir Upgrades: Phoenix has completed upgrades to all major water reservoirs, including new floating covers to prevent evaporation and contamination while maintaining water quality.
- Smart Water Infrastructure: The city has deployed over 100,000 smart meters and utilizes satellite technology to monitor major pipelines for leaks, reducing non-revenue water loss to just 11% of total supply.
Emerging Contaminant Monitoring
Phoenix proactively monitors for over 500 compounds beyond regulatory requirements, including PFAS, 1,4-dioxane, perchlorate, and emerging pharmaceuticals. The city operates its own certified laboratory and partners with research institutions to develop treatment technologies for contaminants that may be regulated in the future.
Recommendations for Phoenix Residents
Conserve Water
Phoenix residents are required to follow water conservation ordinances including no outdoor watering between 10 AM and 5 PM from September to April. Take advantage of rebates for desert landscaping, drip irrigation, and high-efficiency fixtures.
Test Your Water
Phoenix offers free lead and copper testing for residents. Call the Water Quality Line at (602) 261-8114 or visit phoenix.gov/waterquality to schedule testing. Private well owners should test annually.
Maintain Your Plumbing
Even though Phoenix has excellent water quality, proper plumbing maintenance is crucial. Install water softeners if you have hard water concerns, and replace fixtures showing signs of mineral buildup.
Plan for Emergencies
Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for emergency situations. Phoenix’s desert climate and potential infrastructure challenges make emergency water storage particularly important.
Use Reclaimed Water
Take advantage of reclaimed water for outdoor irrigation where available. Reclaimed water services are expanding throughout Phoenix and help conserve drinking water supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Phoenix tap water safe to drink?
Yes, Phoenix tap water is among the safest in the nation and meets or exceeds all federal and state health standards. The city tests water quality over 60,000 times per year and publishes annual water quality reports. Phoenix has invested billions of dollars in advanced water treatment facilities that use state-of-the-art technology to remove contaminants.
The city’s water undergoes rigorous treatment processes including filtration, ozonation, and disinfection before entering the distribution system. While health officials recommend using cold water for drinking and cooking, additional filtration is generally unnecessary for homes built after 1987.
Why does Phoenix water taste different at certain times?
The taste of Phoenix tap water can vary depending on which source is being used and seasonal conditions. During certain times of the year, the city may rely more heavily on groundwater or Colorado River water, which naturally have different mineral content.
Summer heat can increase chlorine odors as treatment plants adjust disinfection levels to maintain safety. Many residents notice that water tastes better after being refrigerated. If you experience persistent taste or odor issues, contact the Water Quality Line at (602) 261-8114, as this may indicate a localized issue that needs attention.
How does Phoenix manage water in a desert climate?
Phoenix has developed one of the world’s most advanced urban water management systems despite receiving only 8 inches of rain annually. The city follows a “portfolio approach” using multiple water sources: Colorado River water via the Central Arizona Project, Salt and Verde river water, groundwater, and treated wastewater.
Phoenix stores millions of gallons in underground aquifers during wet years for use during droughts. The city also recycles over 98% of its wastewater and has extensive conservation programs. Despite a 50% population increase since 1990, total water use has remained relatively stable due to these efficiency measures, making Phoenix a model for water sustainability in arid regions.
Are there restrictions on outdoor water use in Phoenix?
Yes, Phoenix has year-round water conservation ordinances. The main restrictions include:
• No lawn watering between 10 AM and 5 PM during “Summer Hours” (September 16 through April 30)
• Prohibition of water waste (running water on sidewalks, driveways, or streets)
• Pool and spa water loss limits
• Requirements for working irrigation systems at multi-family and commercial properties
Phoenix also offers substantial rebates for water-efficient landscaping, drip irrigation systems, and pool covers. During drought stages, additional restrictions may be implemented. Visit phoenix.gov/waterconservation for current rules and available rebates.
Contaminants of Concern
Perchlorate
Source: Historical industrial and military activities, naturally occurring in certain groundwater areas
Health Effects: May interfere with thyroid function if consumed at high levels over extended periods
Current Status: Below EPA guidelines; affected groundwater wells treated with specialized filtration or blended with other water sources
Mineral Content (Hard Water)
Source: Naturally occurring minerals from groundwater and surface water sources, particularly calcium and magnesium
Health Effects: Hard water is not a health concern and may actually provide beneficial minerals
Current Status: Phoenix water averages 13-16 grains per gallon, considered “hard” to “very hard”; many residents install water softeners for convenience
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