Is Downey, CA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Downey tap water meets federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards but 3 of 3 ZIP codes show detections above EPA health guidelines, primarily for PFOS. A certified filter is recommended for households that want an additional layer of protection.
Where Does Downey Get Its Water?
Water in Downey, CA is provided by 5 public water systems: DOWNEY - CITY, WATER DEPT., GSWC - BELL, BELL GARDENS, GSWC - HOLLYDALE, GSWC - NORWALK and RANCHO LOS AMIGOS HOSPITAL.
How Is Downey Tap Water Treated?
Treated water is disinfected using free chlorine and chloramines and ozone. Treatment includes conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and filtration), granular activated carbon filtration, ion exchange, in-line filtration and post-ozone biofiltration.
What's in Downey Tap Water?
The following contaminants were detected most frequently in Downey public water systems. 3 of 3 ZIP codes showed detections above EPA health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Peak detected | EPA guideline | ZIPs detected | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 0.044 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | 3 ZIPs | Above guideline |
| lithium | 58 µg/L | 10 µg/L | 1 ZIP | Above guideline |
| PFPeA | 0.027 µg/L | — | 2 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFHxA | 0.021 µg/L | — | 2 ZIPs | Within guideline |
| PFOA | 0.011 µg/L | — | 2 ZIPs | Within guideline |
Health Risk Profile for Downey
Based on EPA monitoring data, 3 of 3 ZIP codes in Downey have recorded detections above EPA health guidelines. Sensitive populations such as infants, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems may benefit from an additional layer of protection such as a certified point-of-use filter.
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 Downey Tap Water
Is Downey tap water safe to drink?
Downey tap water meets Safe Drinking Water Act requirements but 3 of 3 ZIP codes show contaminant levels above EPA health-based guidelines. A certified point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
What contaminants are in Downey tap water?
The most commonly detected contaminants in Downey water systems include: PFOS, lithium, PFPeA. See the ZIP-level reports for exact measurements and EPA guideline comparisons.
Where does Downey get its drinking water?
Downey receives water from 5 public water systems, including DOWNEY - CITY, WATER DEPT..
Do I need a water filter in Downey?
If your ZIP code is among those with detections above EPA health guidelines, choose a filter certified for the specific contaminants shown in your ZIP report. Reverse osmosis is generally the broadest option for PFAS, lithium, and many other dissolved contaminants.
How often is Downey tap water tested?
Public water systems in Downey 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 2025-07-16.
Tap water reports by ZIP in Downey
- 90240 - Simons, Downey tap water report Higher concern
- 90241 - McCampbell, Downey tap water report Higher concern
- 90242 - Downey-Norwalk CCD, Downey tap water report Higher concern
Water utilities serving Downey, 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.
- DOWNEY - CITY, WATER DEPT.Action advised
- CENTRAL BASIN MWDNo recent federal sampling
Also covers / overlaps with
- Downey-Norwalk CCD, CA · Township