Is Arcata, CA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Arcata, CA tap water currently meets EPA health guidelines across all monitored ZIP codes in this dataset. Contaminants including lithium have been detected at or below guideline thresholds.
Where Does Arcata Get Its Water?
Water in Arcata, CA is provided by 3 public water systems: ARCATA, CITY OF, KOHALA RANCH WATER CO. and MCKINLEYVILLE C.S.D..
How Is Arcata Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using free chlorine and chloramines. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration), direct filtration and groundwater disinfection.
What's in Arcata Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in Arcata public water systems. All detected levels fall at or below EPA health guidelines in this dataset.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| lithium | 9 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFTrDA | 0.007 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| 8:2 FTS | 0.005 µg/L | 0.005 µg/L | 3 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| 6:2 FTS | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFBA | 0.005 µg/L | — | 0 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for Arcata
Current EPA monitoring data for Arcata shows contaminant levels within guideline thresholds across all ZIP codes in this dataset. As with all public water systems, sensitive populations may choose to use a certified filter for additional peace of mind.
Best Broad-Spectrum Filters for This Water Profile
This city profile includes PFAS detections, chlorine disinfection, and other dissolved contaminants. Reverse osmosis (RO) systems certified under NSF/ANSI 58 provide broad reduction coverage; for PFAS specifically, confirm NSF/ANSI P473 or equivalent PFAS reduction certification.
8-stage tankless RO system certified to NSF/ANSI 58, reduces 1,000+ contaminants including PFAS, lead, arsenic, fluoride, and nitrates.
See recommendations matched to your exact address: choose your ZIP code below.
Frequently Asked Questions about Arcata Tap Water
Is Arcata tap water safe to drink?
Arcata tap water currently meets EPA health guidelines across all monitored ZIP codes in this dataset. Sensitive populations may still choose to use a certified filter as a precaution.
What contaminants are in Arcata tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in Arcata water systems include: lithium, PFTrDA, 8:2 FTS. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does Arcata get its drinking water?
Arcata receives water from 3 public water systems, including ARCATA, CITY OF.
Do I need a water filter in Arcata?
Current data does not show guideline exceedances in Arcata. A certified filter can still reduce trace contaminants and improve taste for households that prefer filtered water.
How often is Arcata tap water tested?
Public water systems in Arcata are required by the EPA to test for regulated contaminants on schedules ranging from daily (for microbials and disinfectants) to annual or triennial (for many chemical contaminants). Results are published in annual Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs). The data on this page reflects the most recent available EPA monitoring results, with the latest sample date of 2025-08-25.
Tap water reports by ZIP in Arcata
- 95518 - Arcata tap water report Some concern
- 95521 - Manila, Arcata tap water report Some concern
- 95524 - Indianola, Arcata tap water report Some concern
Water utilities serving Arcata, CA
Service area boundaries are approximate and based on state filings or modeled estimates. Contact your utility to confirm exact service at a specific address.
- ARCATA, CITY OFSome concern
- HUMBOLDT BAY MWDNo recent federal sampling
Also covers / overlaps with
- Arcata CCD, CA · Township
- Bayside, CA · Community
- Eureka, CA
- Eureka CCD, CA · Township
- Indianola, CA · CDP
- Manila, CA · CDP