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Oak Ridge, TN Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 2 ZIP codes in Oak Ridge, Tennessee

Average Score

67/100

Health Violations

2

ZIP Codes

2

High Lead Risk

1

of 2 ZIP codes

C

About Tap Water in Oak Ridge, TN

Water quality in Oak Ridge, TN is currently rated with a moderate C grade (average score: 67/100 across 2 ZIP codes). This rating indicates that while the water provided by Oliver Springs Water Board is treated and regulated, there have been notable compliance issues or contaminant detections recently. Residents should stay informed about the specific challenges affecting their local supply.

Over the past 5 years, Oak Ridge has recorded 2 health-based violations. While occasional violations can occur due to seasonal changes or temporary infrastructure issues, Oliver Springs Water Board is legally required to resolve these quickly and notify the public via their annual Consumer Confidence Report. The city's water supply, primarily drawn from surface water, is treated to address these specific contaminants.

Additionally, lead exposure risk remains a critical issue for certain neighborhoods. EPA data indicates that 1 out of 2 ZIP codes in Oak Ridge are rated as High or Very High risk for lead. This risk is often driven by aging homes with pre-1986 plumbing containing lead solder or service lines. Families in these areas should test their tap water and consider NSF/ANSI 53 certified filters.

⚠ Lead Risk Alert: Some ZIP codes in Oak Ridge are rated High or Very High for lead exposure risk based on EPA data. Search your specific ZIP code for a detailed lead level report.

Health-Based Contaminant Violations in Oak Ridge

EPA records indicate that the following contaminants have exceeded Safe Drinking Water Act Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) in Oak Ridge water systems over the past 5 years.

Fecal Coliform

Note: The presence of a past violation does not necessarily mean current water is unsafe. Utilities are required to take corrective action. Review your Consumer Confidence Report for the latest status.

Water Quality by ZIP Code — Oak Ridge, TN

Click any ZIP code for the full water quality report

Frequently Asked Questions — Oak Ridge Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Oak Ridge, TN?+
Tap water in Oak Ridge has a grade of C, indicating compliance concerns in recent years. Families with young children or pregnant women should consider using a certified NSF/ANSI 53 water filter for drinking and cooking.
What is the water quality score for Oak Ridge?+
The average water quality score across 2 ZIP codes in Oak Ridge, TN is 67/100. Scores are derived from EPA violation history, lead levels, enforcement actions, and infrastructure risk indicators. Individual ZIP codes may vary — search your specific ZIP above for a personalized report.
Does Oak Ridge have lead in its tap water?+
1 out of 2 ZIP codes in Oak Ridge are rated High or Very High for lead exposure risk. Older homes built before 1986 may have lead service lines or plumbing fixtures. Residents should run their tap for 30 seconds before use and consider a certified NSF/ANSI 53 lead filter.
How do I get the water quality report for Oak Ridge?+
Each ZIP code in Oak Ridge has a full water quality report on this site — click any ZIP code below. You can also get the annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your local water utility. The CCR is required to be published every year by July 1 and contains actual contaminant measurements and violation history.
Where does Oak Ridge's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Oak Ridge, TN primarily comes from surface water. Surface water systems treat water from rivers, lakes, or reservoirs using filtration, sedimentation, and disinfection before it reaches your tap.

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