What San Diego Residents Should Know
San Diego imports approximately 85% of its drinking water from the Colorado River and Northern California, with the remainder coming from local sources such as rainfall and groundwater. This heavy reliance on imported water creates unique challenges, as the quality can vary based on source conditions and drought patterns.
The City of San Diego Public Utilities Department treats and tests water to meet all federal and state standards. However, the long journey that much of San Diego's water takes before reaching your tap introduces various concerns. The Colorado River water tends to be harder and contains higher levels of dissolved solids, while long transit times can increase the need for disinfection chemicals.
Recent testing has revealed emerging concerns about PFAS ("forever chemicals") in some water sources, though levels currently remain below regulatory limits. Additionally, like many cities with older neighborhoods, San Diego has areas with aging infrastructure that can introduce contaminants after water leaves treatment facilities.
Key Contaminants Found
These substances have been detected in San Diego's water supply at levels that may be concerning for some residents.
Hard Water Minerals
Not a Health ConcernSource: Colorado River water, which contains high levels of naturally occurring minerals
Health Effects: No direct health concerns, but can cause dry skin, hair issues, and appliance/plumbing damage
San Diego Levels: 12.5 grains per gallon (214 mg/L), considered "hard" to "very hard"
EPA Limit: Not regulated (aesthetic concern only)
PFAS ("Forever Chemicals")
Below Limit, But PresentSource: Industrial discharges, firefighting foam, consumer products
Health Effects: Increased cholesterol, changes in liver function, decreased vaccine response in children, increased risk of certain cancers
San Diego Levels: 2.7 ppt combined PFOA/PFOS (below new EPA limit but present)
EPA Limit: 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS
Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
Near Limit in Some AreasSource: Byproducts formed when chlorine used to disinfect water reacts with organic matter
Health Effects: Potential increased risk of cancer with long-term exposure, liver and kidney problems
San Diego Levels: 55-75 ppb, varying by location and season
EPA Limit: 80 ppb
Lead
Below LimitSource: Lead service lines, lead solder in plumbing, and older fixtures in pre-1986 buildings
Health Effects: Developmental delays in children, learning disabilities, reduced IQ, kidney problems, high blood pressure
San Diego Levels: Average 3.8 ppb (90th percentile), with approximately 4% of samples exceeding the EPA action level
EPA Limit: Action level 15 ppb, but no safe level exists
Neighborhood Variations
Water quality can vary significantly across San Diego's diverse neighborhoods, primarily due to differences in water source, infrastructure age, and proximity to treatment facilities.
Water Quality by Area
| Neighborhood/Area | Risk Level | Primary Water Source | Buildings Pre-1986 | Notable Concerns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Park/Golden Hill | High | Imported Mix | 74% | Lead, TTHMs, Aging Infrastructure |
| Logan Heights/Barrio Logan | High | Imported Mix | 68% | Lead, Industrial Contaminant Risk |
| Mission Hills/Hillcrest | Medium | Imported Mix | 62% | Lead, TTHMs |
| La Jolla/Pacific Beach | Medium | Imported Mix | 45% | TTHMs, Hard Water |
| Clairemont/Kearny Mesa | Medium | Imported Mix | 52% | TTHMs, Hard Water |
| Carmel Valley/Del Mar Heights | Low | Imported Mix | 15% | Hard Water Only |
Data based on City of San Diego Public Utilities sampling and U.S. Census housing statistics.
Recommended Action Steps
Based on San Diego's water quality data, we recommend these actions to protect yourself and your family.
Test Your Water If in an Older Neighborhood
If you live in a pre-1986 home, especially in neighborhoods like North Park, Golden Hill, or Logan Heights, consider testing your water for lead and other contaminants.
City Testing ResourcesAddress Hard Water Issues
Consider a water softener or water conditioner to reduce the effects of San Diego's hard water on appliances, fixtures, and plumbing. This can extend the life of your water heater and other appliances while improving soap effectiveness.
Filter for Improved Taste
Use a carbon filter pitcher or faucet attachment to improve the taste and odor of tap water by reducing chlorine and its byproducts. For comprehensive filtration, consider a multi-stage under-sink system.
Run Water Before Use
If your water has been sitting for several hours, run cold water for 30-60 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking. For buildings with lead service lines, run water for 2-3 minutes to flush stagnant water from your pipes.
Consider Advanced Filtration for PFAS
If you're concerned about PFAS, consider using a reverse osmosis system or filter certified to NSF/ANSI P473 standard for PFAS reduction. These systems provide the highest level of protection against these emerging contaminants.
Practice Water Conservation
Help protect San Diego's water quality and supply by practicing water conservation. Reducing water usage helps mitigate drought impacts and reduces the need for increased chemical treatment.
Water Conservation TipsWant to know your personal water quality risk?
Answer a few quick questions about your home and get a personalized water quality assessment and action plan.
Take the Assessment