Raleigh Water Quality at a Glance
Is Raleigh Water Safe to Drink?
High Quality with Monitoring Needed — Raleigh water meets all federal standards and has won awards for exceptional quality, serving over 640,000 residents. However, official testing reveals low-level PFAS compounds — PFOS ranging up to 5.5 ppt, PFBS up to 3.5 ppt, and PFOA up to 4 ppt — along with disinfection byproducts. The city sources from Falls Lake and Lake Benson, with comprehensive treatment including ozone, coagulation, and activated carbon. Raleigh Water tests quarterly for regulated PFAS and is actively evaluating new treatment technologies.
⚠️ Key Considerations for Raleigh Residents
- PFAS “Forever Chemicals”: Official data (updated February 2026) shows PFOS ranging from non-detectable to 5.5 ppt, PFOA non-detectable to 4 ppt, and PFBS non-detectable to 3.5 ppt; Raleigh Water tests quarterly and is evaluating enhanced treatment technologies for future installation.
- Disinfection Byproducts: Trihalomethanes (15.5–14.3 ppb) and haloacetic acids (19.0–14.0 ppb) from chloramine treatment; well below federal limits of 80 ppb and 60 ppb respectively.
- North Carolina PFAS Context: North Carolina has widespread PFAS contamination affecting 2.5 million residents; Raleigh’s levels are relatively low compared to other areas of the state.
- Award-Winning Treatment: Both treatment plants hold “Gold Star” honours for exceeding federal standards; Raleigh Water won “Best Tasting Water” in North Carolina for the second consecutive year at the 2023 One Water Conference.
Read the full report below for detailed analysis, testing data, and actionable recommendations for Raleigh residents.
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Raleigh — North Carolina — Water Quality Report 2026: PFAS Testing, Infrastructure & Safety Across Your City
Raleigh Water provides comprehensive water services to more than 640,000 residents across the greater Raleigh metropolitan area, including the neighbouring communities of Garner, Wake Forest, Rolesville, Knightdale, Wendell, and Zebulon. The system encompasses approximately 2,600 miles of water distribution lines, 27 elevated water storage tanks, around 70,000 water valves, over 21,000 fire hydrants, and two advanced treatment facilities that deliver an average of 51 million gallons of drinking water daily to North Carolina’s capital city and surrounding areas.
Raleigh sources its drinking water primarily from Falls Lake Reservoir in northern Wake County, with Lake Benson in southwest Wake County as a secondary source. Falls Lake water is treated at the E.M. Johnson Water Treatment Plant, while Lake Benson water is processed at the Dempsey E. Benton Water Treatment Plant. Raleigh’s water consistently meets all federal and state quality standards and has won multiple awards for exceptional water quality, including “Best Tasting Water” in North Carolina at the 2023 One Water Conference for the second consecutive year. The utility conducts quarterly PFAS monitoring and is actively evaluating new treatment technologies for PFAS removal. You can track active boil water notices across North Carolina on our live tracker, and see the full North Carolina water quality overview for broader statewide context.
Raleigh Water Quality: Current Status (2025–2026)
Latest Testing Results
- Lead and Copper Monitoring: Raleigh Water remains in full compliance with EPA Lead and Copper Rule requirements. To date, Raleigh Water has never found a lead service line in its system and does not expect to find any given the age of the network. Corrosion control measures include pH optimisation to 8.4 and silicate inhibitors; the 90th percentile lead level is well below the federal action level of 15 ppb.
- Testing Scope: Raleigh Water conducts between 6,000 and 7,000 water quality tests monthly — over 85,000 annually — for substances including trace metals, petroleum products, pesticides, and bacteria, with comprehensive monitoring at both treatment facilities and throughout the 2,600-mile distribution network.
- Compliance Status: For the most recent quarter assessed by the US EPA, Raleigh’s water was in compliance with federal health-based drinking water standards. Raleigh Water’s PFAS data page was updated on February 27, 2026, confirming quarterly monitoring of all regulated PFAS compounds is ongoing.
Water Sources
- Falls Lake Reservoir: Primary source (approximately 80% of supply) in northern Wake County, fed by the Neuse River watershed. NC DEQ rates Falls Lake as having “Higher susceptibility” to contamination, reflecting the surrounding developed landscape and potential upstream inputs including PFAS.
- Lake Benson: Secondary source in southwest Wake County near Garner, providing supply redundancy during drought or other disruptions. Also rated “Higher susceptibility” to contamination by NC DEQ.
- Watershed Protection: Raleigh Water funds a comprehensive watershed management programme — including land conservation, streambank restoration, reforestation, and pollution prevention — charged to customers at approximately 15 cents per 1,000 gallons (around 60 cents per customer per month). Understanding your watershed is part of staying informed; check our water quality guide for more.
Advanced Treatment Technology
- E.M. Johnson Water Treatment Plant: The primary facility processes an average of 41 million gallons per day from Falls Lake using a multi-barrier approach: ozone treatment, coagulation with ferric sulfate, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration with activated carbon, and chloramine disinfection. Total combined capacity across both plants reaches up to 106 million gallons per day.
- Dempsey E. Benton Water Treatment Plant: The secondary facility processes around 10 million gallons per day from Lake Benson, incorporating ozone treatment, potassium permanganate pre-oxidation, coagulation, filtration, and chloramine disinfection for exceptional water quality.
- Disinfection Management: An annual temporary switch from chloramine to free chlorine disinfection — typically the last week of March through the first week of April — maintains system cleanliness and prevents biofilm formation. Residents may notice a stronger chlorine smell during this period; this is normal and temporary.
PFAS Status and Future Treatment
- Current PFAS Detections: Official Raleigh Water data (updated February 2026) shows PFAS concentrations in finished drinking water have ranged from non-detectable to 4 ppt (PFOA), non-detectable to 5.5 ppt (PFOS), and non-detectable to 3.5 ppt (PFBS). PFOS at 5.5 ppt marginally exceeds the EPA’s April 2024 MCL of 4 ppt at its detected peak. Raleigh Water tests quarterly for all regulated PFAS and reports results publicly.
- Treatment Optimisation: Raleigh Water staff are actively optimising existing ozone and activated carbon treatment systems to improve PFAS removal. The utility is also evaluating new advanced treatment technologies — such as enhanced granular activated carbon or ion exchange — for potential future installation if required by ongoing regulation.
- Regulatory Context: The EPA’s April 2024 PFAS MCLs set 4 ppt for both PFOA and PFOS, with a compliance deadline now extended to 2031. MCLs for PFHxS, PFNA, GenX, and PFBS were proposed for rescission in May 2025 by the EPA, though a January 2026 federal court denied the request to vacate these rules. North Carolina does not have separate state-level PFAS MCLs. See our water alert news for the latest regulatory updates.
Customer Protection Initiatives
Raleigh Water provides extensive customer support, including free lead testing kits for residents in homes built before 1986, available by calling 919-996-4420 or emailing watersamples@raleighnc.gov. The Utility Customer Assistance Programme offers discounted rates for qualifying low-income customers. Monthly and annual water quality reports are publicly available at raleighnc.gov. The 2024 Consumer Confidence Report (the most recent annual report) is available to download from the Raleigh Water reports page. Residents can also visit our water filter recommendations for certified filtration options suited to Raleigh’s contaminant profile, including NSF-certified activated carbon and reverse osmosis systems for PFAS and disinfection byproduct reduction. For comparison with nearby cities, see our reports for Charlotte, Fayetteville, and Durham (where available).
Recommendations for Raleigh Residents
Test Your Water
Request a free lead testing kit from Raleigh Water by calling 919-996-4420 or emailing watersamples@raleighnc.gov. Testing is especially recommended for homes built before 1970 or plumbed between 1962 and 1986 with potential lead solder or components. For PFAS concerns, Raleigh Water publishes quarterly results on their PFAS data page at raleighnc.gov — check our water quality guide for help interpreting your results.
Conserve Water
Take advantage of Raleigh’s Water Conservation Programmes, including free water conservation kits with efficient fixtures. Follow the Permanent Conservation Measures guidelines for outdoor irrigation — odd-numbered addresses may irrigate Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday; even-numbered addresses on Wednesday, Friday, Sunday. No outdoor watering between 10 am and 6 pm. This helps protect Falls Lake and the wider watershed that supplies your water.
Consider Home Filtration
While Raleigh’s water meets all standards and has won quality awards, homes with older plumbing or those wanting additional protection against low-level PFAS and disinfection byproducts may benefit from certified filtration. NSF-certified activated carbon filters (Standard 53) reduce disinfection byproducts; reverse osmosis systems provide the most comprehensive PFAS removal. See our filter guide for recommended options.
Participate in Rainwater Rewards
Apply for the Raleigh Rainwater Rewards programme, which provides funding for rain gardens, permeable pavement, and rain cisterns that help reduce stormwater pollution and conserve water. Visit raleighnc.gov/rainwater-rewards for details and support the city’s broader “One Water Plan” approach to integrated water management across Raleigh.
Report Issues
Contact Raleigh Water Customer Care at 919-996-3245 (available 24/7) for water main breaks, pressure problems, or quality concerns. Report leaks promptly to help conserve water and maintain system integrity throughout the 2,600-mile distribution network. You can also monitor active local alerts via our boil water notices tracker and water alert news.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Raleigh’s tap water safe to drink in 2026?
Yes, Raleigh’s tap water meets all federal and state drinking water standards and has won awards for exceptional quality. The city’s water comes from Falls Lake Reservoir and Lake Benson, both of which undergo comprehensive treatment including ozone oxidation, coagulation, activated carbon filtration, and chloramine disinfection.
Raleigh Water conducts over 85,000 quality tests per year and publishes monthly and annual reports. Both treatment plants hold “Gold Star” honours from the NC Division of Water Resources for exceeding federal standards. PFAS detections remain at low levels — Raleigh Water’s PFAS data page was updated in February 2026 confirming quarterly monitoring continues. Residents concerned about low-level PFAS or disinfection byproducts may wish to consider a certified home filter. See our water filter guide for options.
Why does my water sometimes taste or smell different?
Occasional taste and odour changes can occur due to several factors:
1. Annual disinfection switch: Each spring — typically the last week of March through the first week of April — Raleigh Water temporarily switches from chloramine to free chlorine disinfection. This can result in a more noticeable chlorine smell. The switch is routine and the water remains safe to drink.
2. Seasonal water quality changes: Natural variations in source water, including earthy or musty smells from seasonal algal activity in Falls Lake or Lake Benson, can affect taste temporarily.
3. Home plumbing: Internal plumbing issues or infrequently used faucets can sometimes cause taste or odour concerns unrelated to the supply itself.
If taste or odour issues persist, contact Raleigh Water at 919-996-3245. The utility uses ozone and activated carbon to manage seasonal issues, though changes may take time to reach all parts of the distribution system. You can also track any active water quality notices through our boil water notices tracker.
Does Raleigh have lead in its water system?
Raleigh Water has been and remains in compliance with all federal and state regulations for lead and copper in drinking water:
• Lead service lines: To date, Raleigh Water has never found a lead service line in its service area. Given the age of the system, Raleigh Water does not expect to find any. In rare cases, the connection between the public main and a service line (a “gooseneck”) may be made from lead in older galvanised iron service lines.
• Corrosion control: The utility maintains pH at 8.4 and uses silicate corrosion inhibitors to prevent leaching of lead and copper from household plumbing.
• Testing results: Recent lead and copper sampling shows levels well below federal action limits. The system monitors at least 110 homes for lead on a rotating basis.
• Free testing: Residents can request a free lead testing kit by calling 919-996-4420 or emailing watersamples@raleighnc.gov. Testing is especially recommended for homes built before 1970 or plumbed between 1962 and 1986.
Are there water restrictions in Raleigh?
Raleigh operates year-round under Permanent Conservation Measures for outdoor water use:
Permanent Conservation Measures:
• Irrigation limited to three days per week — odd-numbered addresses on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday; even-numbered addresses on Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
• No outdoor watering between 10 am and 6 pm to minimise evaporation
• No water waste (runoff onto streets or sidewalks)
Drought Response:
During severe drought conditions, Raleigh Water may impose additional restrictions including further limits on outdoor watering, vehicle washing, pressure washing, and pool filling.
Current status and restrictions are available at raleighnc.gov/water or by calling 919-996-3245. You can also check our water alert news for any active advisories.
Quality News About Your Water
Get the comprehensive water quality news coverage you need with our dedicated US Water News Service. From coast to coast, we deliver in-depth reporting and expert analysis on PFAS contamination, EPA regulatory changes, infrastructure developments, and emerging water safety issues affecting communities nationwide. While mainstream media only covers the biggest stories, we provide the detailed, ongoing coverage that helps you understand the full scope of America’s water challenges.
What’s actually in your tap water? Enter your ZIP code for a full breakdown of contaminants detected in your local supply
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Contaminants of Concern
Disinfection Byproducts
Source: Formed when disinfectants such as chloramine react with naturally occurring organic matter in source water. May be more prevalent during warmer months when organic matter levels in Falls Lake and Lake Benson are higher.
Health Effects: Long-term exposure to elevated levels may increase risk of certain cancers and potentially affect liver, kidney, and central nervous system function.
Current Levels (2023 CCR, most recent published): Total trihalomethanes at 15.5 ppb (E.M. Johnson) and 14.3 ppb (Dempsey E. Benton). Haloacetic acids at 19.0 ppb (E.M. Johnson) and 14.0 ppb (Dempsey E. Benton). EPA Limits: 80 ppb for TTHMs and 60 ppb for HAA5 — Raleigh’s levels are well below both thresholds. NSF-certified activated carbon filters effectively reduce these compounds. See our filter guide for options.
PFAS Compounds
Source: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances originating from industrial processes, firefighting foams, and consumer products entering Falls Lake and Lake Benson via the surrounding watersheds. North Carolina has some of the most significant PFAS contamination in the US, particularly from the Cape Fear River basin, though Raleigh’s levels are comparatively lower.
Health Effects: Research links PFAS to immune system effects, thyroid disruption, elevated cholesterol, and possible links to certain cancers with long-term exposure above safe levels.
Current Status (updated February 2026): Official Raleigh Water data shows finished water PFAS concentrations ranging from non-detectable to 4 ppt (PFOA), non-detectable to 5.5 ppt (PFOS), and non-detectable to 3.5 ppt (PFBS). Raleigh Water tests quarterly for all six regulated PFAS and posts results publicly. Staff are optimising current ozone and activated carbon treatment for improved PFAS removal, with new treatment technologies under evaluation. EPA MCLs: 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS; compliance deadline 2031. Reverse osmosis filtration provides effective PFAS removal — see our water filter recommendations.
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